Abstract

The right of autonomous patients to make decisions about their care is core to medical practice.

However, we are frequently faced with situations where a patient is unable to make those decisions because of their medical status, mental health or intellectual ability.

Here we consider the legal framework for the treatment of those who lack the capacity to decide for themselves, and some of the factors that influence how such decisions are made.

Citations

Kate E. A. Saunders. Considerations in the assessment of capacity. Medicine Volume 48, Issue 10, October 2020, Pages 680-682

Sponsorship: Supported by the NIHR

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mpmed.2020.07.003

URI: https://www.oxfordhealth.nhs.uk/orka/title/considerations-in-the-assessment-of-capacity/