Episode 29: Informed Consent & Decisions

Informed consent. This phrase is one of the top three most common phrases in the doula dictionary.

However, the actual process of informed consent is between a patient and their care provider. This involves a discussion of the risks, benefits & alternatives to any proposed intervention or treatment. In addition, it also includes the right to refuse any recommended treatment or intervention. Yet somewhere along the way, doulas have been taught that they are responsible for clients giving informed consent.

“I support whatever my client decides, as long as they are making an informed decision.”

Is it the doula’s role to determine if the client is making an informed decision? What if the client doesn’t want to make an informed decision? What if the client wants to what their provider thinks is best?

Why do some doulas believe that clients can’t make sound healthcare decisions without the doula making sure they have all the information?

Did you know that the majority of individuals don’t make decisions about their healthcare based on the best evidence? Most individuals make decisions based on external influences. The opinions of friends, family, and partners. Or based on our own implicit and explicit biases and confirmation biases.

Yet with all this discussion surrounding informed consent, for many, one critical aspect is often missing. Information on the consent for treatment signed by a client upon admission to the hospital.

Come join us as we tackle the topics of informed consent and decision making!