Healthcare Decision-Making
/ˈhɛlθˌkɛər dɪˈsɪʒən ˌmeɪkɪŋ/
Definitions
- (n.) The process by which individuals, often patients or their legal representatives, make informed choices regarding medical treatments and care options.
Healthcare decision-making requires clear communication between doctors and patients to ensure valid consent.
- (n.) Legal procedures or authorities governing how healthcare decisions are made for incapacitated persons, including advance directives and surrogate decision-making.
The statute outlines the framework for healthcare decision-making when a patient is unable to consent.
Forms
- healthcare decision-making
Related terms
See also
Commentary
In legal drafting, clearly distinguish between individual autonomous decisions and substituted judgment by surrogates to avoid ambiguity in consent and liability.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.