Informed consent
Clinical reviewer: Elena Gizzi, MSN, RN · Last checked September 24, 2026
What is informed consent?
Informed consent is the process by which health care providers explain a patient's health condition and treatment choices, so the patient can decide whether to accept care. MedlinePlus says providers must give this explanation by law, and a patient who understands the condition, the options and their risks has the right to refuse treatment.
What does it mean to give informed consent?
Informed consent means you are informed, you understand your health condition and treatment options, and you are able to decide what care to receive and give your consent [1]. The National Cancer Institute describes it as a process in which patients are given information about risks and benefits so they can decide whether to be treated, tested, or take part in a trial [2].
What must a provider explain?
By law, providers must explain a patient's health condition and treatment choices before treatment [1]. MedlinePlus lists what that includes: the health problem and reason for treatment, what happens during it, the risks and how likely they are, how likely the treatment is to work, whether it can wait, other options, and risks that may appear later [1]. Providers may ask patients to repeat the information back in their own words to check understanding, which MedlinePlus calls "teaching back" [1].
Can I refuse treatment, and are there exceptions?
Not all medical treatments require written informed consent [1]. Patients have the right to refuse treatment if they are able to understand their condition, the treatment options, and the risks and benefits of each [1]. Informed consent is not needed in an emergency when delayed treatment would be dangerous, and a surrogate, or substitute decision-maker, may consent for someone who cannot decide [1].
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to sign a written form for informed consent?+−
Not always. MedlinePlus says not all medical treatments require written informed consent. Either way, your provider must still explain your health condition and treatment choices.
What happens if I can't decide for myself?+−
A surrogate, or substitute decision-maker, may give consent on your behalf. Informed consent is also not needed in an emergency when delaying treatment would be dangerous.
Related terms
Sources
This entry is for education and is not medical advice. Talk with a licensed clinician about your own situation before starting, stopping, or changing any treatment.
