Doctor talking to an elderly patient

Assessment of capacity

Dr Mark Woodrow, General Manager of the Medical Advisory Service at Avant explains how to assess decision-making capacity in healthcare, outlining key criteria, practical steps, and legal considerations.

Monday, 8 September 2025

Video Considerations when determining capacity

This publication is not comprehensive and does not constitute legal or medical advice. You should seek legal or other professional advice before relying on any content, and practise proper clinical decision making with regard to the individual circumstances. Persons implementing any recommendations contained in this publication must exercise their own independent skill or judgement or seek appropriate professional advice relevant to their own particular practice. Compliance with any recommendations will not in any way guarantee discharge of the duty of care owed to patients and others coming into contact with the health professional or practice. Avant is not responsible to you or anyone else for any loss suffered in connection with the use of this information. Information is only current at the date initially published.

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