INFORMED CONSENT
The American Medical Association (AMA) defines informed consent as “a process of communication between a patient and a physician that results in the patient’s authorization or agreement to undergo a specific medical intervention” (n.d.). The requirements of this communication with the patient begin with discussing the diagnosis, reviewing details about the procedure or treatment and its purpose, and outlining the risks and benefits of the procedure or treatment. The communication continues with a discussion of alternatives and their risks and benefits. It is important to note that the alternative procedures or treatments are discussed without reference to their cost or coverage by health insurance. Finally, the physician will discuss the risks and benefits of not having the treatment or procedure at all. At this point the patient has a chance to ask questions in order to complete their understanding of what is proposed, so they can make an informed decision about whether to agree to or refuse the procedure or treatment.
The responsibility of an allied health professional involves facilitating the required communication process between the patient and the physician (Dowd & Davidhizar, 1996). This could involve answering patient questions if appropriate and seeking the physician to answer the patient question beyond the scope of their knowledge if the physician is absent. Allied heath professionals also commonly handle the paperwork involved. These responsibilities include acting as a patient advocate by doing what they can to make sure the patient understands the informed consent process. They also can confirm the patient filled out the form correctly once the patient made his or her decision.
References
American Medical Association (n.d.). “Informed consent.” AMA.com. Retrieved from
http://www.ama-assn.org//ama/pub/physician-resources/legal-topics/patient-physician-relationship-topics/informed-consent.page
Dowd, S. & Davidhizar, R. (1996). “Consent: what is the role of health care workers?.” Health Care Supervisor. 15, 1-7.
