Behandlingsinformation

Behandlingsinformation is information about a medical treatment or procedure that is provided to a patient or their legal representative to support informed consent and shared decision making. The concept covers what the treatment aims to achieve, how it is performed, what alternatives exist (including no treatment), and the expected benefits, risks, and uncertainties.

Content typically includes: the purpose and goals of the treatment; a clear description of the procedure or therapy; eligibility and criteria for the treatment; potential benefits and realistic outcomes; possible risks, side effects, and complications; available alternatives and their comparative outcomes; duration, anesthesia or hospitalization needs, and follow-up or aftercare; any financial considerations relevant to the patient; and questions the patient may wish to ask.

Delivery should be tailored to the patient’s language, literacy, and cultural context, and supported by written materials, patient portals, or audiovisual aids. Information is usually provided before a decision is made and revisited if plans change. Clinicians should verify understanding, using approaches such as teach-back, and document what information was provided and the patient’s decisions or refusals.

Legal and ethical aspects include the patient’s right to accept or refuse treatment, respect for autonomy, and consent requirements. In cases of incapacity, decisions may involve advance directives or legally appointed surrogates.

Behandlingsinformation is a core component of patient-centered care, risk management, and quality assurance, and should be integrated with shared decision making and appropriate documentation.