O038 Digital consent: modernising data-sharing in surgery and empowering patients. (22nd July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Daliya, P; Lobo, DN; Parsons, SL
• Is Part Of: British journal of surgery. Volume 109(2022)Supplement 4
• Publication Date: 2022-07-22
• Subjects: Surgery -- Periodicals; 617.005
• DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znac242.038
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1323

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Despite the 2015 Montgomery Ruling highlighting key requisites for informed consent, little has changed to modernise data-sharing and documentation of the consent process. Although many practitioners provide supplementary information to support consent consultations it can be difficult to gauge patient understanding and address all patient concerns in time limited appointments. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a digital informed consent to address these issues. Methods: All adult patients referred to a single centre with symptomatic gallstones were invited to use a digital consent platform prior to their first surgical clinic appointment. The platform provided patients with multimedia information on gallstones and available treatment options. It recorded the time spent accessing supplementary information, asked Patients Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), documented a summary medical history, and allowed free text for patient questions. This information was summarised into a clinical report to support clinic consultations. Results: 349 patients registered to use the digital consent platform. 203 patients (58.2%) completed all modules necessary to generate a clinical report. 81.3% were female, with a mean age of 46.7 years (range 19–83 years). 130 patients (64.0%) answered all 10 MCQs correctly and spent a mean of 18.7 minutes (range 3–88 minutes) reading the consent information. Conclusion: Despite difficulties with access resulting in proportionate drop-out, patients welcomed the opportunity to receive supplementary information digitally, prior to their consultation. Patients described feeling empowered and better informed to be involved in decision-making. Clinicians also welcomed the process in improving the efficiency of consultations. Take-home message: Digital data-sharing and digital consent can help to improve decision-making during clinical consultations for both patients and clinicians.