Informed consent – Ethical doctrine and a legal mandate

Abstract

Informed consent is not only an ethical doctrine but also a legal mandate in medical practice and clinical research. The concept of consent has changed over the last few decades from doctor-focused to patient-focused. This provides adequate knowledge to the patient about disease and treatment options so that the patient and doctor can make shared decisions. Respecting the patient's autonomy, disclosure of material risks and solicitation of the patient's preferences are very important in the process of informed consent. The relationship between doctor and patient should be one of the trust and communication. An honest and ethically obtained consent can prevent litigations and medicolegal repercussions.

Keywords

• autonomy
• ethics
• informed consent
• medicolegal
• self-determination