What is the primary purpose of obtaining informed consent in physical therapy?

The primary purpose of obtaining informed consent in physical therapy is to ensure that the patient understands the planned treatment. Informed consent is a process that involves providing patients with comprehensive information about their diagnosis, the proposed treatment options, the risks and benefits associated with those options, and any potential alternatives. This process empowers the patient to make a well-informed decision about their care.

Informed consent is crucial in fostering a therapeutic alliance between the therapist and the patient. It ensures that the patient actively participates in their treatment plan and understands the implications of their choices. This not only enhances patient autonomy but also aligns with ethical and legal standards in healthcare, promoting respect for patient rights.

While protecting the therapist from litigation, documenting treatment, and securing insurance coverage are important aspects of practice, they are secondary to the foundational goal of ensuring patient understanding and involvement in their own treatment. The essence of informed consent lies in patient education and autonomy in healthcare decisions.