Sophia Soraya
May 12, 2025
Implied consent plays a crucial role in the healthcare and legal systems, particularly regarding medical malpractice. At Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C., we help clients across New Jersey understand how implied consent may impact their rights in a medical setting. Knowing the implied consent medical definition and how it differs from written consent can help you better navigate medical care and assess whether you may have grounds for a malpractice claim.
This blog will explain the differences between implied and written consent, highlight medical treatments that require express written permission, and explore how consent or the lack of it can affect potential malpractice cases.
What’s Implied Consent?
Implied consent refers to situations where a patient’s consent is not directly stated or documented but is instead inferred from actions or circumstances. This type of consent is typically accepted in routine or emergency scenarios where explicit permission may not be practical.
For instance, if a patient rolls up their sleeve for a flu shot, their action indicates implied consent for the injection. Similarly, in emergencies, if a patient is unconscious or unable to respond, medical professionals may act on the assumption that a reasonable person would consent to life-saving treatment. According to the Legal Dictionary, implied consent is based on the presumption that a sensible individual would agree to the necessary care under the given conditions.
While implied consent makes medical treatment easier, it lacks the clarity and legal protection that written consent provides. This leaves implied consent open to being a point of contention in medical malpractice cases, especially if there is a dispute over what the patient agreed to.
What’s Written Consent?
Written consent, also known as informed consent, is a formal, documented agreement in which a patient authorizes a medical provider to proceed with a specific treatment or procedure. This consent follows a detailed conversation between the provider and patient outlining the diagnosis, proposed treatment, risks, and alternatives.
Key components of written consent typically include:
- The patient’s diagnosis and recommended treatment plan.
- A description of the procedure, including benefits and potential risks.
- Possible alternative treatments.
- The expected results and consequences of refusal of the procedure.
This measure is guaranteed when a patient is awake and gives consent voluntarily before the treatment process. Written consent is normally required for invasive, complex, or risky treatments, providing more legal protection for the patient and practitioner.
What Types of Medical Treatments Need Written Consent?
Specific medical procedures require written consent under legal and ethical standards to uphold patient autonomy and ensure informed decision-making. These include, but are not limited to:
- Surgical operations
- Anesthesia administration
- Blood transfusions
- Chemotherapy or radiation therapy
- Biopsies
- HIV testing
- Certain vaccinations
In New Jersey, informed consent is also mandated for individuals participating in medical research, as outlined in the New Jersey Revised Statutes. These laws require that research participants receive a clear, non-technical explanation of the procedures, risks, and alternatives in a language they can understand.
Failure to obtain proper written consent before such procedures can lead to serious legal consequences, including medical malpractice claims.
What Are the Grounds for A Malpractice Claim?
Consent, whether implied or written, is a cornerstone of ethical and lawful medical care. However, when consent is mishandled or improperly obtained, it may lead to a valid medical malpractice claim. Grounds for such claims include:
Failure to Obtain Consent
A provider performs a treatment or procedure without the patient’s consent, constituting a breach of duty.
Insufficient Disclosure
If a provider fails to adequately explain the risks, alternatives, or nature of treatment, the consent may be considered invalid.
Exceeding the Scope of Consent
When a medical provider performs additional procedures beyond what was agreed upon, they may be held liable. For example, they may address an unrelated issue during surgery without prior approval.
Disputed Implied Consent
Because implied consent isn’t documented, it can be challenging to prove in court. Disputes often center around whether the patient’s actions truly signaled agreement.
Misuse of Emergency Exceptions
While emergencies may justify implied consent, using this exception in non-urgent situations can lead to legal repercussions. Medical malpractice claims tied to consent issues can be complex.
Need Legal Assistance?
If you or a loved one were harmed due to improper consent or related medical negligence, Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C. is here to help. Our experienced legal team understands the nuances of consent in malpractice cases and will fight to protect your rights. Contact us at (201) 588-1500 to schedule a consultation and explore your legal options.
Sophia Soraya
Sophia Soraya is a seasoned attorney specializing in complex civil matters, with a focus on personal injury, professional malpractice, and product liability cases across New York and New Jersey. Sophia is a Partner with the Firm and has been selected as a Super Lawyers, Rising Star for consecutive years.
University: J.D. New England Law (Boston)
Bar Number: 000402013
Locations: New Jersey and New York.
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