What Is Informed Consent?

Informed consent is the legal and ethical process in which a patient agrees to a medical procedure or treatment after fully understanding its risks, benefits, and alternatives. Healthcare providers must give clear explanations and answer questions before a patient makes a decision about their care.

Why does informed consent matter?

• Protects patient rights: Ensures individuals can make medical choices based on complete information.
• Encourages doctor-patient communication: Patients have the right to ask questions and understand potential outcomes before agreeing to treatment.
• May require written documentation: Certain procedures, such as surgeries or experimental treatments, require a signed consent form as proof of agreement.

How Solace can help

A Solace advocate can help explain medical terms, clarify treatment options, and ensure patients fully understand their choices. If communication barriers exist—such as language differences or cognitive concerns—an advocate can help patients or their caregivers get the information they need.

What to do next

Have questions about a medical procedure or treatment plan? A Solace advocate can help you understand your options before making a decision. Find an advocate today.