An introduction to patient consent

Informed patient consent is a fundamental professional, ethical, and legal obligation for all medical practitioners. This course provides a practical introduction to the principles that underpin valid consent, including disclosure, voluntariness, capacity, and documentation. It explores why consent is not a single form or signature, but an ongoing communication process that supports patient autonomy and shared decision-making. Designed for doctors at all stages of practice, this course establishes a common baseline for understanding consent across clinical settings.