The Role Of Patient Autonomy In The Context Of Informed Consent To Medical Treatment Has Changed Significantly Over Time: Medical Law And Ethics Essay, UMHS, Ireland
University | University of Medicine And Health Science (UMHS) |
Subject | Medical Law And Ethics |
Question 1
“The role of patient autonomy in the context of informed consent to medical treatment has changed significantly over time, moving from a paternalistic approach to patients to a more patient-centered approach as encapsulated in the recent decision of Montgomery v North Lanarkshire, with similar developments in Ireland. This move towards a patient-centered approach is laudable. However, some aspects of the court’s interpretation of patient rights and autonomy in Montgomery and in subsequent cases can be criticized, and it is questionable whether the approach to autonomy and patient rights in such recent cases aligns with patients’ interests in all cases.’