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[Is informed consent actually possible?]
1Arbeitsstelle für Ethik in den Biowissenschaften, Universität Basel. christoph.rehmann-sutter@unibas.ch
Therapeutische Umschau. Revue Therapeutique
|November 1, 2006
Summary
In prenatal medicine, informed consent faces challenges due to social pressures. This article advocates for a dialogical approach, emphasizing patient subjectivity and mutual understanding in healthcare decisions.
Area of Science:
- Bioethics
- Prenatal Medicine
- Medical Law
Context:
- Informed consent in prenatal medicine is often restricted by social expectations.
- Women face pressure to undergo screenings and tests, complicating decision-making.
- Criticism exists that informed consent can overburden patients and become a mere formality.
Purpose:
- To defend the principle of informed consent in prenatal care.
- To propose a reinterpretation of informed consent based on a dialogical principle.
- To highlight the importance of recognizing patient subjectivity and vulnerability.
Summary:
- The article addresses the complexities of informed consent in prenatal medicine.
- It critiques the current application of informed consent, which can create undue pressure.
- A dialogical principle is proposed, emphasizing mutual understanding and patient-centeredness.
Impact:
- Advocates for a more empathetic and understanding approach to informed consent.
- Suggests a shift towards recognizing the patient's unique situation and vulnerability.
- Promotes a culture of "hearing" in medical decision-making, enhancing patient autonomy.
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