Informed consent: a changing paradigm?

Historically, healthcare professions were based upon a paternalistic doctor-patient relationship. The dentist or doctor was recognized as an expert who was trusted to use his/her specialist knowledge to direct or sometimes even dictate the treatment of patients. This was not always in-line with a patient's wishes and often restricted patient autonomy. The relationship was thought to resemble that of a father and child, hence the use of the term ‘paternalism’.

Over time healthcare has moved to a more patient-centred model, promoting self-determination and autonomy. The principle that patients have a right to decide what happens to their bodies underpins good practice in the medical and dental specialites.^1,2 It is an ethical and legal obligation for clinicians to ensure that patients are fully informed and involved in the decision-making process.³

Practising clinicians need to have a thorough understanding of the principles of consent. The laws regarding consent are continually changing and clinicians must remain up-to-date with developments and understand the implications for their day-to-day practice. A recent landmark case has again emphasized the importance of fully informing patients regarding the risks of treatment. It has stressed the importance of patient autonomy and has continued the move away from the paternalistic, doctor knows best attitude. This paper aims to provide an overview of informed consent in the UK and the implications of recent changes in consent law for the orthodontic team.