Question

What are some of the risks involved with denying a patient capacity?

Answer 1

Physicians exercise the right to deny the capacity of a patient. However, bearing in mind that each state has its own set of legislatures and rules, one should understand that this right comes with a set of risks. It is wrong to deny service to anyone based on unlawful grounds.

'capacity' means the ability to take a decision with full knowledge and understanding and to be able to act on it. The physician must ensure that he/she is providing every bit of information and talking to the patient without forming a decision about his/her capacity. Any breach in this process can warrant legal actions based on both ethical and professional grounds.