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The psychiatrist as informed consent technician: a problem for the professions
1Program in Psychiatry and the Law, Massachusetts Mental Health Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston 02115.
Bulletin of the Menninger Clinic
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Psychiatric consultations in medical settings can be misused, reducing psychiatrists to technicians. This study identifies five flawed consultation models and outlines the correct approach for genuine informed consent.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Medical Ethics
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Psychiatric consultation is integral to multidisciplinary healthcare.
- Consultation can be compromised, diminishing the psychiatrist's role.
- This impacts the informed consent process in medical settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and describe inappropriate models of psychiatric consultation.
- To review the proper methods for obtaining informed consent in psychiatric consultations.
- To advocate for a consultant role over a technician role for psychiatrists.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of consultation scenarios.
- Literature review on psychiatric consultation and informed consent.
- Identification and categorization of five distinct inappropriate consultation models.
Main Results:
- Five models of "debased" psychiatric consultation were identified.
- These models often involve psychiatrists acting as technicians, not consultants.
- The findings highlight deviations from the principles of true informed consent.
Conclusions:
- Psychiatric consultation requires a consultant model for effective practice.
- Adherence to proper informed consent procedures is crucial.
- Reforming consultation practices ensures ethical and effective patient care.