Orthodontic Consent Form – Everyone should be able to make educated decisions about their healthcare. Treatments for medical conditions can be risky, therefore patients should be able decide the risks that are known to be present as well as their own personal preferences, how they will be treated. In order to ensure that medical professionals are allowed to administer treatments to patients, they must obtain the process of informed consent.
A patient’s informed consent can be a legally binding requirement under which a patient is provided with specific information regarding his or her physical condition and the treatment recommended by the acting physician. After receiving this information the patient has to sign a consent form with the doctor to treat prior to any form of treatment is provided. Without the patient’s informed consent an health care professional is not allowed to provide treatments.
Decision Making Capacity
In certain instances, patients do not possess the knowledge to fully comprehend their options regarding treatment, and the risks and benefits that come with each. In some instances, patients may not be able explain their decisions to health professionals. When this occurs it is believed that the patient not to have adequate capacity to make decisions. If a family member is not present, or court-appointed representative will then be permitted to take over informed consent.
Patients that are strongly influenced by their emotions – such as anxiety or fear, as an example could be classified as lacking the ability to make decisions. Patients who are in the state of unconscious are unable to make decisions on their own, and outside parties are required to obtain consent instead.
Items in an Orthodontic Consent Form
Certain elements are universally included in informed consent forms:
The patient’s medical diagnosis/condition
The recommended treatment is suggested by the physician in charge
The risks and benefits that come with this treatment
Alternative treatments are available, along with their potential risks and benefits
The benefits and risks associated with not accepting any treatment whatsoever
Not only must these items be detailed in documentation, but they must also be discussed with the patient. So, he she will fully understand the details of the situation and will be able to get immediate answers to any questions that may have arisen.
Download Orthodontic Consent Form
Gallery of Orthodontic Consent Form
