- Is the doctor speaking the same language you are? Does he or she use words and explanations you can understand?
- Is the doctor speaking directly? Speaking around information or using words like “natural result”, is not enough. Clarity is essential.
- Is the informed consent coming from the doctor or has she or he delegated that duty to someone else.
- Did you receive copies of your consents and written information regarding the surgery?
- Were audiovisual and computer aids used so you could see examples of likely results?
- I believe that a doctor who really understands a procedure can explain it so that the patient understands the benefits, alternatives, complications and consequences. Once the patient has this information, anxiety will be reduced and the patient will be able to decide if it is a good idea to proceed with treatment.
In a word, yes. Doctors should put themselves in the patients position and ask and then answer “what would they like to know about the operation?”. Being understood is an advantage for the patient and should be for the doctor as well. The following list should help you get what you need to know what you are getting. Is the doctor speaking the same language you are? Does he or she use words and explanations you can understand?Is the doctor speaking directly? Speaking around information or using words like “natural result”, is not enough. Clarity is essential.Is the informed consent coming from the doctor or has she or he delegated that duty to someone else.Did you receive copies of your consents and written information regarding the surgery?Were audiovisual and computer aids used so you could see examples of likely results? I believe that a doctor who really understands a procedure can explain it so that the patient understands the benefits, alternatives, complications and consequences. Once the patient has this information, anxiety will be reduced and the patient will be able to decide if it is a good idea to proceed with treatment.
