Does a doctor have to inform me about alternative treatment methods?
May 18, 2022 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Jenny Richter
Dear Medical Law Attorney,
My name is Phillip Ullmann and I have a question regarding the disclosure obligation of my treating physician. I have been suffering from severe back pain for some time and have sought medical treatment for it. My doctor has proposed a conventional therapy, which is however associated with risks and side effects. I have researched online and found that there are also alternative treatment methods that may be less invasive and risky.
My concern is that my doctor may not have adequately informed me about these alternative treatment methods. I would like to know if he is obligated to present me with all possible therapy options and inform me about their advantages and disadvantages. I want to ensure that I receive the best possible treatment for my back pain and that no therapy options are overlooked that may be better suited for me.
Could you please explain to me if a doctor is obligated to inform the patient about alternative treatment methods? If so, how can I ensure that my doctor fully informs me about all therapy options? Are there legal steps I can take if I feel that I have not been adequately informed?
Thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Phillip Ullmann
Dear Mr. Ullmann,
Thank you for your question regarding the duty to inform of your treating physician. The physician's duty to inform is an important part of the doctor-patient relationship and serves to ensure that the patient is informed about all relevant information regarding their health and possible treatment options.
In general, a physician is obligated to inform the patient about all treatment options that are relevant to the particular illness. This includes alternative treatment methods that may be less invasive or risky than conventional therapy. The physician must explain to the patient the pros and cons of the various treatment options and make a decision together with the patient on which treatment is most suitable.
To ensure that your physician informs you comprehensively about all treatment options, you can actively ask questions and specifically inquire about alternative treatment methods. You can also conduct your own research and ask the physician specific questions about certain treatment options. It is important that you educate yourself and actively participate in your treatment to receive the best possible care.
If you feel that you have not been sufficiently informed, you can take legal action. In such cases, you can contact a medical law attorney who can help you enforce your rights as a patient. You can file a complaint with the medical board or seek compensation if you have suffered harm due to inadequate information.
I hope that this information has been helpful to you. If you have any further questions or need legal assistance, I am available to help.
Sincerely,
Jenny Richter, Medical Law Attorney
