Informed Consent
We aim to provide each patient with sufficient information in a way that they can understand to allow them to make a decision about their care. We will use various communication tools to make certain that the patient understands what is being suggested.
In our discussions with the patient, we will explore what they want to know and explain:
• Why we feel the treatment is necessary
• The pros and cons of the proposed treatment
• What might happen if the treatment is not carried out
• The alternative treatment options and the pros and cons of each
We encouraged patients to ask questions and aim to provide honest and full answers. We always allow patients time to make their decisions.
We always make sure that the patient understands whether they are treated under the NHS or privately and what the costs will be. Where a patients embarks on a course of treatment, we provide a written treatment plan and cost estimate.
Where changes to the treatment plan are needed, we obtain the patients agreement and consent, including to any changes in the cost. The patient is given an amended treatment plan and estimate.
Voluntary Decision Making
Decision about their care must be made by the patient, and without pressure. We respect the patients right to:
• Refuse to give consent to treatment
• Change their minds after they have given consent
When this occurs we will not put pressure on the patient to reconsider, but where we feel its is important, we will inform the patient of the consequences of not accepting the treatment.
Ability To Give Consent
Every person aged 16 or over has the right to make their own decisions and is assumed to be able to do so, unless they show otherwise. We recognise that in some circumstances, children under 16 years, may be able to give informed consent to examination and treatment.
Where we have doubts about a patients ability to give informed consent, we will seek advice from our defence organisation.