Informed Consent: How to Deal With Difficult Situations

Recently, I’ve noticed an increase in providers reaching out due to patients leaving negative Google reviews post EOB receipt. One patient even claimed a client “stuck a needle in each knee without warning,” which is far from the truth. As medical providers, communication is key, unlike in veterinary practices. Thus, it got me thinking about why these patients who sought medical treatment for their ailment(s) and received relief from the treatment(s) leave such false and inflammatory reviews. The simple answer, they don’t want to pay their bill. So, that got me thinking more… Google and other types of online reviews for providers are either deal makers or breakers for those seeking out the services of a new provider. Obviously, we can dispute the negative review(s) but those take time, they remain on your company profile until the dispute is resolved, even when you prove things factually it can take a long time for it to fall off, and who knows how many patients may see that before it is removed and then decide to move on to the next provider.

Implement Informed Consent For All Procedures Proactively

Reflecting on this, I believe it’s essential to implement informed consent for all in-office procedures beforehand. While some may already do this, many may not. Informed consent ensures that we have a paper trail and evidence that the patient was engaged in their healthcare and ultimately made the decision to either have the service or decline it. This also helps us in a dispute with a payor or if the patient pushes back on why they should pay their bill (“no one ever told me I was responsible”) or if they have been sent to collections, your agency has proof they agreed to have the services performed.  

While I realize adding another document to the things that need to be signed by a patient to cover your “assets” is a hassle, in the long run, I believe it demonstrates compliance and a good faith effort to engage in ethical business practice. 

I’ve created a template that can be adjusted to suit your practice. I realize some may look at this and think, “That’s too much” and it might be, you can always cut it down to fit your needs, that’s why it’s a template and I hope it proves valuable. 

Informed consent for an in-office medical procedure involves clearly outlining the nature of the procedure, potential risks and benefits, alternative options, and securing the patient’s understanding and agreement.

Sample Template

Informed Consent for In-Office Medical Procedure

Patient Information:

– Patient Name: _______________________________________

– Date of Birth: ________________________________________

Procedure Information:

– Procedure Name: ____________________________________

– Date of Procedure: ___________________________________

Introduction:

Your healthcare provider __________________ has recommended that you undergo the following in-office medical procedure. This consent form is designed to help you understand the procedure, its risks and benefits, and alternative treatment options. Please read this document carefully and feel free to ask any questions you may have.

Description of the Procedure:

– The procedure involves: 

– The expected duration of the procedure is: __________________

Purpose of the Procedure:

– The purpose of the procedure is to:

Potential Benefits:

– The potential benefits of the procedure include:

Risks and Complications:

While the procedure is generally safe, there are potential risks and complications, which may include but are not limited to:

– Infection

– Bleeding

– Pain or discomfort

– Adverse reaction to anesthesia

– Scarring

Alternatives to the Procedure:

– Alternative treatments or procedures include:

– You have the option to decline this procedure.

Before the Procedure:

– Follow all pre-procedure instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

– Inform your healthcare provider of any medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

– Notify your healthcare provider of any allergies or medical conditions you have.

During the Procedure:

– The procedure will be performed in an office setting.

– Local anesthesia may be used to minimize discomfort.

– You will be monitored throughout the procedure to ensure your safety.

After the Procedure:

– Follow all post-procedure care instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

– Report any unusual symptoms or complications to your healthcare provider immediately.

– Schedule follow-up appointments as directed.

Confidentiality:

– Your medical information will be kept confidential and shared only with individuals involved in your care, in accordance with HIPAA regulations.

Voluntary Consent:

– I have read and understood the information provided in this form.

– I have had the opportunity to ask questions and have received satisfactory answers.

– I understand the nature of the procedure, its risks, benefits, and alternatives.

– I voluntarily consent to undergo the procedure described above.

Patient Consent:

Patient Name: _______________________________________

Patient Signature: ____________________________________

Date: ______________________________________________

Provider Certification:

I have explained the nature, purpose, risks, benefits, and alternatives of the procedure to the patient and have answered all questions to the best of my ability.

Provider Name: ______________________________________

Provider Signature: ___________________________________

Date: ______________________________________________

Note: This is a template and should be tailored to the specific procedure and the policies of the healthcare facility. It is advisable to have the form reviewed by legal counsel to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations at the state and federal levels. Neither the author nor DoctorsManagement, LLC and its subsidiaries, affiliates, or members bears any liability for the use of this template that is provided for informational purposes only. 

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