Informed Consent is a decision-making process where a patient is educated about their medical condition by their physician and gives permission for a specific treatment. The process involves evaluating the patient and their medical conditions, considering treatment options and discussing potential benefits, risks and possible complications of a specific treatment. Permission is documented in a written informed consent signed by the patient (or their guardian if the patient is a minor or power of attorney if the patient is unable to make their own decision). Occasionally verbal consent may be obtained. Informed Consent is also required for participation in a research study/clinical trial.

In breast surgery, Informed Consents are obtained prior to a biopsy or surgery. The Informed Consent addresses:

Who:

    Patient’s name 

    Doctor’s name

What:

    Name of the procedure to be performed

    Includes site of the procedure; right, left, bilateral

    May include specific location of the breast problem

    What is the problem being addressed; i.e. breast cancer, abnormal breast imaging, nipple discharge, etc.

Alternatives:

    Other options to the specific treatment offered

    This includes “No Treatment” as an option

Why:

    Benefits for having the specific treatment

    Consequences of not having the specific treatment

Risks:

    Possible Complications of the specific treatment

Patients should ask any questions they have about their medical conditions and their treatment options. There is no such thing as a bad question. An informed patient is an empowered patient.

Additional information may be obtained on the American College of Surgeons website link:

https://www.facs.org/education/patient-education/patient-resources/informed-consent