Consent

Today, patients are better informed, more demanding and want to be more closely involved with their treatment. Good consent helps this process, ensuring that the doctor–patient relationship is based on confidence and trust.

Good consent relies on a total respect for patient autonomy as far as the patient’s capacity will allow. It is not just about getting a signature on a consent form. For consent to be valid:

• The patient should be informed
• The patient should be competent
• Consent must be given voluntarily.

We’d like your feedback or suggestions about any medicolegal issues you’d like to see on these pages. Send your comments to gpregistrar@mps.org.uk

Dr Sarah Cornock

Disclaimer: All information in this edition of GP Registrar is correct at the time of publishing (September 2011)