What does "informed consent" require from healthcare providers?

Informed consent is a fundamental principle in healthcare that emphasizes the importance of patient autonomy and the right to make informed decisions regarding their care. It requires healthcare providers to give patients comprehensive and understandable information about their diagnosis, treatment options, potential risks and benefits, and any alternatives. This ensures that patients can weigh their options and understand the implications of their decisions before giving consent.

By providing sufficient information for understanding decisions, healthcare providers enable patients to ask questions and consider their values and preferences in relation to their health choices. This process fosters trust and promotes an active partnership between healthcare providers and patients, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and greater satisfaction with care.