legeveiledning

Legeveiledning refers to the information and guidance provided by a physician to a patient or client about health conditions, diagnostic findings, prognosis, treatment options, and care decisions. It aims to support understanding and informed choices.

It occurs in clinical encounters such as consultations, discharge planning, chronic disease management, preventive care, and end-of-life discussions. The content may include interpretation of tests, risks and benefits of options, alternatives, and recommended next steps.

Quality lede guidance is patient-centered, evidence-based, and communicated in clear language. It often involves shared decision making, confirmation of understanding, and respect for patient values and preferences. Informed consent is part of the process.

Delivery can be face-to-face, via telemedicine, or through written materials and patient portals. To improve accessibility, interpreters and culturally appropriate materials should be used when needed, and health literacy considerations should be addressed.

Limitations and risks include that medical information can be complex and uncertain. Guidance may change with new evidence, and patients may misunderstand. Responsibility lies in both clinician and patient to ask questions and confirm decisions, and documentation is important.

Legal and professional context: In many countries, doctors are obligated to provide relevant information to support informed consent and autonomous decision-making, while protecting confidentiality. In Norway, the Pasient- og brukerrettighetsloven establishes rights to information and participation in care. Healthcare providers also follow professional guidelines and privacy rules.

Legeveiledning is a core element of patient care and is distinct from medical research or public health messaging.