Does our language about informed consent create confusion about it? Therapists and other mental health professionals often ask how they should “deliver” or “give” informed consent to patients. But in fact, informed consent is something you receive — “consent from an informed patient.” This workshop lets us practice fitting our language to the concept as we consider the what/when/how of informed consent, whether in the initial interview, or when subsequently obtaining consent for something.
INTRODUCTION:
Confused Language & Frequent Misunderstandings
About Informed Consent
1. Ethical Standards
2. The Concept of “Truly Informed Consent”
3. Informing the Patient
What must we inform patients about?
How much information is necessary?
Must the information be presented in writing?
4. Obtaining the Informed Patient’s Consent
Consent to Receive Services
Consent to Accept the Described Policies and Fees
Consent to Accept the Described Limits of Confidentiality
Consent to Release Confidential Information to Others
Other Consent Circumstances
5. Other Ethical Implications
Preparing to Inform Patients
Aware of Ethical Requirements About What Information to Provide
Prepared to Incorporate Information re: Relevant Laws & Regulations
Assessing Patient’s Capacity to Understand the Information
Assessing Patient’s Capacity to Give Consent
EDUCATIONAL GOALS:
1. Describing and describing the informed consent process
2. Listing therapists’ responsibilities in that process
3. Naming some of the ethical implications and pitfalls related to informed consent in various contexts