What should I do if a patient refuses testing needed to rule out life-threatening conditions?
Physicians are obliged to suggest treatment that, in their best medical judgment, is appropriate for the individual patient. However, a competent patient may refuse any treatment. A physician who encounters a patient who refuses recommended testing or treatment is advised to discuss or maintain an ongoing dialogue with the patient concerning: • what the testing/treatment entails • why it is the recommended course of action • the risks and benefits of the proposed testing/treatment • the risks of not having or delaying the testing/treatment • any alternatives that are possible. Such dialogues and the patient’s refusal should be carefully documented and include the patient’s signature whenever possible.
