Evaluation of a method to improve the consent process: improved data retention with stagnant comprehension

Our study explored whether a simple, cost-effective intervention directed only at physicians could improve patient comprehension with informed consent process. In our medical university oncology clinic, we performed a baseline survey on 69 patients receiving new therapy, testing for comprehension of the important components of the informed consent process. We then instituted a three-part intervention, including (1) physician education, (2) an available toxicity list, and (3) a checklist to ensure physician compliance. We repeated the survey on 54 consecutive patients who consented for treatment, evaluating four outcomes. The intervention produced a 38 % improvement in patients' listing of toxicities (p = 0.0003) and no significant improvements in the understanding of therapeutic goals, likelihood of achieving those goals, and confidence in their understanding of treatment. Our three-part intervention, directed solely at physicians, improved patients' recall of toxicity data but did not influence the other important areas of patient comprehension within the informed consent process.