Informed consent

Kaiser Permanente recognizes the right of competent members to decide whether to accept or reject proposed medical treatment and to decide among recognized treatments. Before exercising this right, you must provide members with sufficient information to reach an informed decision. The member's signed informed consent form or a chart note reflecting the content of the informed consent discussion provides the necessary documentation.

When a member is not competent, the right of informed consent accrues to the persons legally authorized on the member's behalf.

In an emergency, health care providers are authorized to supply necessary medical treatment without the member's prior informed consent.

Our standard regarding informed consent is consistent with state law and the principles of Kaiser Permanente as set forth in the Statement of Member Rights and Responsibilities.