Consent To Exchange Information Form – Every person should be able to make informed choices about their healthcare. Medical procedures can be demanding, and therefore patients should be able to ultimately determine according to the known risks as well as their own personal preferences, how they will be treated. In order to ensure that medical professionals are allowed to provide treatment to patients they must obtain the process of informed consent.
The informed consent requirement is legal condition under which a patient has been informed of the physical condition and the treatment suggested by the acting physician. Once this information is received the patient must provide the physician with consent to treat prior to any form of treatment is given. Without the patient’s informed consent health care professional is not permitted to provide treatments.
Decision Making Capacity
In certain instances, patients do not possess the capabilities to fully understand their options in terms of treatment and the risks/benefits of each. In other circumstances, patients may not be able to effectively convey their preferences to health care professionals. Under these circumstances it is believed that the patient to lack the necessary capacity for decision-making. An individual from the family or court appointed representative can make informed consent on behalf of the patient.
Patients who are strongly affected by their emotions – anxiety or fear, for example can be deemed to not possessing decision making capacity. Those who are unconscious clearly cannot make decisions on own, and outside parties must provide consent for treatment instead.
Items in an Consent To Exchange Information Form
Certain elements are common to all consent forms:
The patient’s medical conditions/diagnosis
The recommended treatment is suggested by the acting physician
The risks and the benefits associated with this procedure
Alternative treatments that are offered, as are their benefits and risks
The risks and benefits that come of refusing treatment at all
Not only should these details be detailed in documentation, but they must also been discussed by the patient. This way, he or can be fully aware of the specifics of the situation and receive direct responses to any questions that may arise.