Cheryl A. Cameron

Informed consent in orthodontics

Informed consent is a process of communication between a health care provider and patient that educates the patient as to the patients needs and the potential solutions for those needs, and leads to the endorsement of a health care treatment plan. A claim of lack of informed consent may be brought by a patient when there is a perceived failure in the disclosure of adequate information to make a reasoned decision whether to consent to treatment. This article provides the foundation of the informed consent doctrine, delineates the essential elements of a lack of informed consent claim, and identifies the parties and their roles in the informed consent process.

Put It in Writing or Be Prepared to Go for a Ride: A Case Study in Due Process

Steve Milam is the coordinator of Compliance for Medical Affairs and an affiliate assistant professor in the Department of Medical History and Ethics of the School of Medicine at the University of Washington. Cheryl A. Cameron is the associate vice provost and a professor in the Department of Dental Public Health Sciences of the School of Dentistry at the University of Washington. Correspondence regarding this feature should be addressed to Steve Milam, JD, at: University of Washington, Box 358220, Seattle, WA 98195-8220; telephone: 206-543-3910; fax: 206-221-2999; email: smilam@u.washington.edu or to Cheryl A. Cameron , PhD, JD, at: University of Washington, Box 351237, Seattle, WA 98195-1237; telephone: 206-543-6616; fax: 206-685-3218; email: ccameron@u.washington.edu. It is important to note that the comments and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and are not intended to serve as legal advice for anyone. These opinions and comments are intended for the scholarly discussion of legal principles applicable to physician assistant (PA) education.