Informed consent--more than a form.

One of the most common causes of malpractice after complications and failure to make a timely diagnosis of an illness is improper or poorly written informed consent. Now the informed consent process can be created using computer-automated technology. The automated consent is procedure-specific, includes all the requirements suggested by the American Medical Association, and significantly reduces the risk of malpractice related to a poorly documented, traditional, handwritten consent. Also, the automated consent will improve the efficiency of the office and consent process. This article will cover the five necessary components of an informed consent and discuss how an automated consent provides a layer of protection against malpractice.