Why is patient consent important?

Michelle Patton MDU medico-legal adviser
Consent to treatment is among the most complex ethical issues doctors face. It's important to understand what's involved
Photo credit: Newscast

Consent must be freely and voluntarily given by a patient with capacity who has been given all the information he or she needs to reach a decision

This page was correct at publication on 22/04/2015. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.

Michelle Patton
Medico-legal adviser

Michelle joined the MDU as a medico-legal adviser in 2012. She was previously a GP partner, a forensic medical examiner and served as vice-chair of Newcastle West CCG.