(6)
Consequences of not treating. (Self-explanatory.)
(7) Names, of person s, responsible for treatment or procedure. (Self-
explanatory.)
1. The purpose and nature of authorization as an act of consent.
2. The nature of the treatment (surgical procedure or drug therapy).
3. Possible and probable benefits of the proposed treatment.
4. Probable risks and consequences.
a. Seriousness (temporary paralysis of the arm)
5. The feasible alternative treatments and their likelihood of success.
6. The consequences of not treating.
7. Name(s) of person(s) responsible for treatment or procedure.
Figure 1-13. Element of disclosure.
1-16. PURPOSE OF DISCLOSURE
The disclosure requirements were not designed to protect the physician from
medical malpractice suits. Thus, the elements of disclosure cannot simply be viewed as
a handy laundry list of "right things" to cover to ensure protection from medical
malpractice suits. Rather, the goal of disclosure is patient-centered. The intent is to
support the patient's right to self-determination (autonomy) in decision making by
enabling patients to exercise their autonomy rationally and intelligently. The emphasis
should be on options rather than risks (although failure to advise of the risks could
definitely get the physician in trouble).
MD0067
1-33