Digital Consent Form – Everyone should have the ability to make informed decisions about their health. Treatments for medical conditions can be demanding, and therefore patients should be able decide in light of known risks as well as their own personal preferences, how they will be treated. Thus, before medical professionals are permitted to treat patients, they must be given the so-called informed consent.
Informed consent is a legal requirement where a patient is provided with detailed information about his or her physical health and the treatment recommended by the treating physician. After receiving this information the patient must be able to give the physician their consent to treat prior to any form or treatment can be offered. Without the patient’s informed consent any health professional cannot offer treatments.
Decision Making Capacity
In certain situations, patients do not possess the skills to comprehend their options regarding treatment, and the benefits and risks associated with each. In some instances patients may not be able to effectively convey their preferences to health professionals. In these situations the patient is considered to lack the necessary decision making capacity. Family members or a court appointed representative can perform informed consent instead.
Patients who are greatly influenced by their emotions – such as anxiety or fear, as an example can be deemed to lacking the ability to make decisions. People who are not conscious cannot take decisions on their independently, and other people need to consent to treatment instead.
Items in an Digital Consent Form
Certain elements are included on all informed consent forms:
The patient’s medical condition or diagnosis
The treatment recommended by the medical professional in charge
The benefits and risks associated with this treatment
Alternative treatments that are available, as well as their benefits and risks
The benefits and risks associated with refusing any treatment at all
Not only should these details be documented in a written document However, they should also discuss the situation with patients. This way, he she will fully understand all the details of the scenario and receive direct responses to any queries that might be arising.