Consent

Diagnosis

Proposed Treatment

What the Treatment Entails

Expected Benefits

Common Side Effects & Risks

Other Options / Alternatives

Consequences of Choosing Not to Proceed

Who Will Undertake the Intervention?

Location

Time Involved and Post-Operative Recovery

Cost Involved

You need to know what the medical problem is.

What are the details of the treatment or surgery being proposed?

What is the nature of the operation to be performed?

What is the likely improvement provided by the treatment?

What are the normal difficulties that people encounter?

What are the risks or complications that can occur with the treatment?

Are there any variations on the treatment that can be offered?

Is laser or medical treatment a possible alternative to an operation?

Will the treatment become more difficult if the surgery has to be performed later?

Will the vision deteriorate if the drops prescribed are not used?

Which Hospital will be involved?

Is the procedure Day Surgery?

Can the procedure be performed on site?

Will you require assistance on the day?

How long will you need to avoid driving or other activities?

Is it a public or private hospital? 

You will be provided with the surgical costs.  You may be able to claim these costs from Medicare and your Health Fund.

Other costs can be incurred from the Anaesthetist, Pathologist and the hospital. 

Ensure you check with your Health Fund as to your extent of cover.