The legal aspects of informed consent

Abstract

This paper discusses communication in the context of health care with a special focus on informed consent. Focus is emphasized on the different aspects of informed consent and how they affect health care in general. Discussion is made on the on the history and challenges affecting the subject. The lack of communication is also discussed together with the resultant effects. Multiple studies are cited in an effort to create a road map establishing relationships between informed consent and malpractice litigation as well as establishing evolution of patients' understanding of the concept of informed consent as well as providing ways of avoiding malpractice in health care.