BMJ - Will obtaining digital consent from patients in advance of undergoing procedures improve the quality of the consent process? (26 April 2022)

Summary

Before a patient undergoes a medical procedure such as surgery, they need to give their consent, having been informed about the details of the procedure and associated risks and benefits. However, in spite of the development of clear guidance on informed consent, many patients still feel nervous or unsure about asking questions and raising concerns during the consent process.

Beginning with a personal account that highlights the importance of a thorough and meaningful consent process, this article in The BMJ by Tessa Richards, Associate Editor, examines the issues faced by both doctors and patients in achieving truly personalised informed consent.