An ideal model of informed consent communication

Abstract

Informed consent (IC) should be a form of communication between a physician and patient in which information regarding all options of a medical procedure and the patient's preference is shared. The aim of this study was to create a standard for communication by IC for physicians. The IC standard was developed based on an analysis of a dialogue in our previous experience with a medical communication program and a review of the literature. The dialogue pattern of the IC standard had the following six elements: opening; orientation; disclosure of information; conforming and complementing; shared decision making; and closing. Factors that influenced effective IC-based communication included preparation, attitude, empathy, listening, a psychosocial factor, nonverbal communication, explanation, and understanding. The IC communication standard will be useful in improving the quality of communication between a physician and patient in obtaining IC. It will also be used as a guideline for communication educators and medical students. Innovative strategies and rigorous studies are needed to improve IC counseling to establish effective patient-centered interviews.