High profile cases have put the spotlight on the consent process and clinicians are increasingly aware of the risks; however, Medical Protection data shows a number of claims alleging that a clinician failed to explain alternative treatment options. Dr Emma Green, Medicolegal Consultant at Medical Protection, looks at the case law surrounding therapeutic options, GMC guidance on consent, and how these impact on the information provided to patients during the consent process.

As the vaccination programme against COVID-19 continues in the UK, the usual laws around patient consent still apply. But what if your patient lacks capacity to consent? Dr Jayne Molodynski, Medicolegal Consultant at Medical Protection, offers advice and guidance

Clinical records, consent, confidentiality, communication, competence, and prescribing - what medical students and junior doctors need to know about these common medicolegal risk areas and how to avoid them.

The receipt and storage of images of patients is currently a common source of queries from our members, largely due to the increased use of remote consultations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ayisha Hooper, Case Manager at Medical Protection, reviews the relevant guidance.​

Dr Philip White, Medicolegal Consultant at Medical Protection, looks at the potential impact of subtle changes of wording in the GMC’s new consent guidance

In a recent Medical Protection survey almost a third of doctors questioned were not comfortable discussing organ donation with a patient. With different laws across the UK and further changes imminent, this is maybe not surprising

Intimate examinations are something that every GP will have to carry out at some point in their career, but it’s important that they are conducted in an appropriate manner, especially if one is required during a home visit. Dr Gabrielle Pendlebury, medicolegal consultant at Medical Protection, gives her advice on how best to manage these situations

Dr Rachel Birch, medicolegal consultant and editor-in-chief of Practice Matters, shares a recent case where a member sought advice regarding consent for childhood immunisation.

Is the patient’s son entitled to access his mother’s confidential information? Where a patient lacks capacity clinicians should consider what action is in the patient’s best interests.

Top ten tips to assist foundation doctors when consenting a patient for a procedure