Abstract
The patient-doctor relationship has two fundamental components. The first is the application of the skill and knowledge of the doctor in the care of the whole patient and family. The second is the right of the individual to have information about his or her illness or treatment, and to be involved in decision making. This relationship is built on trust and comes sharply into focus in the area of consent to take part in clinical trials. The argument is put forward that the use of written information should be seen as an extension of the communication between the doctor and the patient, and not as a legally restrictive device. The concept of an agreement, both on the part of the doctor and of the patient, to take part in a clinical trial is developed.
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