What is the legal term for a patient's agreement to receive treatment?

The legal term for a patient's agreement to receive treatment is informed consent. This concept emphasizes the necessity for healthcare providers to explain the risks, benefits, and alternatives of a proposed treatment or procedure to the patient, ensuring that they understand and voluntarily agree to it. It protects the patient's autonomy, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare. Informed consent is a fundamental aspect of ethical medical practice and legal standards, ensuring that patients are empowered participants in their own treatment.

Other terms mentioned, such as a patient bill of rights, refer to a document outlining the rights and privileges of patients in a healthcare setting rather than directly relating to their consent for treatment. A medical release form typically involves permission to share medical information, and treatment authorization can pertain to various aspects of a medical procedure but does not encompass the comprehensive understanding and agreement required in informed consent.