What term is used for a formal agreement between a patient and a provider regarding treatment?

The term that refers to a formal agreement between a patient and a provider regarding treatment is informed consent. Informed consent is a crucial concept in healthcare that ensures the patient is fully aware of and understands the treatment options available, the potential risks and benefits associated with these options, and gives their voluntary agreement to proceed. It emphasizes the patient's autonomy and right to make informed decisions about their own healthcare.

This process typically involves the provider explaining the proposed treatment in a clear and comprehensible manner, addressing any questions or concerns the patient may have. It is both an ethical obligation for healthcare providers and a legal requirement in many jurisdictions, ensuring that the patient's rights are upheld throughout their treatment journey.

The other options, such as a treatment plan, power of attorney, and health insurance policy, serve different purposes. A treatment plan outlines the steps and interventions to be taken for a patient's care but does not necessarily involve the formal agreement aspect. Power of attorney involves legal authority typically regarding financial or healthcare decisions but is not directly about treatment agreements. A health insurance policy outlines the coverage and benefits of healthcare services but does not constitute an agreement between the patient and provider regarding specific treatments.