In consultations conducted by the CHF over many years, consumers have raised concerns over the lack of informed consent and informed financial consent processes when making decisions about their healthcare. This is of particular concern in the context of rising out-of-pocket healthcare costs and increasing rates of chronic illness in the community.
The purpose of this paper is to explore issues relating to consumers and informed consent in healthcare. The paper also provides a snapshot of the current literature, research and policy debate surrounding informed consent.