Seattle Informed Consent Attorneys
What is informed consent? It is not simply getting the patient to sign a written consent form. It is a process of communication between the doctor and the patient that results in the patient’s authorization or agreement to undergo a specific medical procedure – be it surgery or treatment. Before performing any type of procedure on the patient, a physician is required to discuss and disclose the procedure, the process and the possible side effects or complications that could result from the treatment or procedure. It is the doctor’s responsibility to fully explain the procedure and make sure that the patient understands what he or she is getting into.
During this process of communication, the physician is required to disclose and discuss the following with the patient:
- The patient’s diagnosis, if known
- The nature and purpose of a proposed treatment or procedure
- The risks and benefits of the proposed treatment or procedure
- Alternatives (irrespective of their cost or health insurance coverage)
- The risks and benefits of such an alternative treatment
- The pros and cons of not receiving or undergoing the treatment or procedure
The patient should also have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the procedure in detail with the doctor. The patient should not feel rushed into anything. He or she should get all information in order to make an informed decision to proceed or refuse a particular course of medical intervention. The process of informed consent is not only an ethical obligation on the part of the physician, but also a legal requirement spelled out in statutes and case law in all 50 states.
If you were not properly informed about the surgery or treatment option you undertook and suffered severe side effects or complications as a result, then you are a victim of medical malpractice. You will be eligible to file a Tacoma medical malpractice claim and seek compensation for past and future medical bills, loss of wages, pain and suffering. You have the right to decide what is in your best interest. You have the right to make informed choices about your health and treatment options. Nobody, not even your doctor, can coerce you into making rushed decisions.
If you or a loved one believes you were misinformed or misled about a surgery or some type of medical treatment, please call a skilled Washington medical malpractice attorney at the Bernard Law Firm for a free and comprehensive consultation. We will also perform a free evaluation of your claim and give you the best possible course of action in your case.
IF YOU, OR A LOVED ONE, HAVE BEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED DUE TO INFORMED CONSENT IN WASHINGTON - CALL TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION!
