Which phrase is synonymous with “informed consent” in medical practice?

The phrase "voluntary permission" captures the essence of informed consent in medical practice. Informed consent is a process in which a patient is provided with adequate information about a medical procedure or treatment, allowing them to make a knowledgeable choice regarding their care. This process highlights the patient's right to make decisions about their treatment in a voluntary manner, without coercion or undue pressure.

While other phrases such as "written agreement" and "executed authorization" imply a formalized documentation of consent, they do not fully convey the underlying principle that the patient's permission must be given freely and with full understanding of the implications of their choices. Similarly, "patient approval statement" suggests a level of agreement but does not emphasize the importance of the patient's autonomy and understanding of their medical situation. In contrast, "voluntary permission" directly reflects the fundamental characteristics of informed consent, specifically the aspect of the patient's free will in making healthcare decisions.