Electronic Signature Consent Form – Everyone should have the ability to make informed decisions regarding their medical care. The medical procedures can be invasive, so patients should be able decide the risks that are known to be present of their body, how it will be treated. In order to ensure that medical professionals are allowed to treat patients, they have to obtain the so-called informed consent.
Informed consent , a requirement in law is the requirement that requires that a patient be provided with detailed information about the physical condition and the treatment suggested by the physician in charge. Once this information is received the patient has to sign a consent form with the doctor to treat prior to any form or treatment can be delivered. Without informed consent from the patient, a health care provider is not allowed to provide treatment.
Decision Making Capacity
In some instances patients may not have the capabilities to fully understand their options regarding treatment, and the risks/benefits of each. In other circumstances, patients may not be able to explain their decisions to health professionals. In such situations the patient is said not to have adequate decision making capacity. Family members or a court-appointed representative in this case, can make informed consent on behalf of the patient.
Patients who are greatly influenced by their emotions such as anxiety or fear, for instance – may be determined as lacking the ability to make decisions. People who are not conscious cannot take decisions on their independent of themselves, so outsiders have to give consent for treatment instead.
Items in an Electronic Signature Consent Form
There are certain elements that are common to all consent forms:
The patient’s medical condition or diagnosis
The recommended treatment is suggested by the physician who is acting
The risks and benefits that come with this method of treatment
There are alternative treatments available, as well as their risks and benefits
The risks and benefits associated with refusing treatment whatsoever
These details must not only be documented in a written document, but they must also discuss the situation with patients. This way, he or is able to fully comprehend the details of the situation and will receive immediate responses to any questions that may arise.