The concept of informed consent is extremely important to the safety of both you and your doctor. Whenever a patient is preparing to make a decision that could significantly impact his or her health, it is crucial that they know the all of the possible side effects and dangers of an operation. Informed consent, whether it is in writing or through a conversation, should be an important part of every operation and treatment plan.
It is the responsibility of every doctor to communicate thoroughly with their patients. If a patient is unable to understand the implications a procedure will have on their health, they may not be able to make an informed decision, which directly affects their own health and safety. To make sure their patients understand the risks associated with a given procedure, many doctors are relying not only on face-to-face conversations, but also on follow-up written consent forms. It is important for a patient's understanding that the paper description that they are given lines up with the information their doctor shared with them during the consultation. Receiving both written and oral consent from a patient helps the doctor as well, because it can be proof of exactly what information he or she shared with the patient.
Part of being completely informed about a surgical procedure is discussing alternative treatment options. A patient may be told everything there is to know about one type of procedure, but they may not be aware that they have other options. Alternative treatment options may actually be more attractive to a patient. Knowing the possible dangers of just one option may not be enough to make an informed decision. A good doctor will inform a patient of the ins and outs of all the available options.
It is the responsibility of the doctor or other medical professional who is handling the case to properly inform their patient. On top of that responsibility, it is crucial that a surgeon or doctor performs their work according to the consent that is given to them. With the exception of certain emergencies, a doctor should not make assumptions for their patient that may affect their health or cause allergic reactions.
If you or someone you love feels that a doctor treated you without obtaining your informed consent, contact a medical malpractice attorney. A lawyer's expertise can help you gather the evidence you need to hold the physician accountable for his or her neglectful care.
It is the responsibility of every doctor to communicate thoroughly with their patients. If a patient is unable to understand the implications a procedure will have on their health, they may not be able to make an informed decision, which directly affects their own health and safety. To make sure their patients understand the risks associated with a given procedure, many doctors are relying not only on face-to-face conversations, but also on follow-up written consent forms. It is important for a patient's understanding that the paper description that they are given lines up with the information their doctor shared with them during the consultation. Receiving both written and oral consent from a patient helps the doctor as well, because it can be proof of exactly what information he or she shared with the patient.
Part of being completely informed about a surgical procedure is discussing alternative treatment options. A patient may be told everything there is to know about one type of procedure, but they may not be aware that they have other options. Alternative treatment options may actually be more attractive to a patient. Knowing the possible dangers of just one option may not be enough to make an informed decision. A good doctor will inform a patient of the ins and outs of all the available options.
It is the responsibility of the doctor or other medical professional who is handling the case to properly inform their patient. On top of that responsibility, it is crucial that a surgeon or doctor performs their work according to the consent that is given to them. With the exception of certain emergencies, a doctor should not make assumptions for their patient that may affect their health or cause allergic reactions.
If you or someone you love feels that a doctor treated you without obtaining your informed consent, contact a medical malpractice attorney. A lawyer's expertise can help you gather the evidence you need to hold the physician accountable for his or her neglectful care.
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