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Knowing the law is important for everyone. In times of trouble, understanding the law, or having someone on your side that does, can protect you from calamity. When it comes to your health, being aware of the laws that apply to your particular health situation is critical. Informed consent is a part of health law with which many people should become familiar. Legal experts like Watson Spence Attorneys, a corporate law service in Albany, GA, are highly experienced in this and many other areas of the law, and would like to briefly explain the main points you need to know about informed consent. What Is Informed Consent? In order for a patient to make a reasonable decision regarding the medical treatment he or she receives, all the risks, potential benefits, and possible alternatives to any medical procedure must be explained by the medical provider. Then, written consent for the procedure must be obtained from the patient. Is It Always Necessary? In some cases, a written informed consent is not necessary. In the case of a medical emergency it isn't always possible to obtain consent, such as when a patient is unconscious and immediate medical procedures are required to save his or her life. In other cases, there isn't always time to get the written consent because certain medical procedures are needed immediately in order to sustain life or limb. Lastly, some medical procedures are too commonplace or minor to require an official explanation of benefits or risks, such as when a doctor takes your blood pressure or looks into your throat. The Doctor When informed consent is necessary, the physician should be the one to inform the patient and to obtain the consent. The physician should be sure that the patient has the ability to understand the information and then the patient's diagnosis should be stated (if possible), a clear explanation of the procedure should be given, the possible benefits as well as risks should be communicated, and the possible alternatives the procedure--regardless of cost or coverage--should be listed. The Patient As a patient giving informed consent you need to listen carefully and make sure you understand what is being explained to you. Your physician has spent years using medical terminology and communicating in certain ways that you have not. If you don't understand, make your physician explain things in a way you can understand. Don't be embarrassed to admit you don't understand. Your physician wants to know you understand what is happening before you give your consent. Guardians Minors and other persons unable to give an informed consent for their medical procedure will need to have a guardian do so for them. In the case of children, not only will their adult parents be more capable of giving an informed consent, but these parents are very likely to have the high level of concern necessary to guide them to make the best possible decisions for their child. Adult individuals not capable of giving informed consent for their medical procedure should choose a guardian who fully understands and cares about their needs and well-being. Experienced attorneys are a good option. Don't try to handle these legal matters alone. Expert corporate law services in Albany, GA, can safely guide you through this and many other legal matters. With an expert on your side you can approach legal health matters with confidence.
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