Perhaps the intellectual foundation on which patient power needs to be based is the practical ability to ask the right questions. Patients hand over control to doctors and other professionals by allowing them to ask questions, which includes physical examinations and tests. However when such assessments have been concluded, it is the patients’ prerogative to ask questions. This is essential if they are going to understand and consent to treatments and other actions as expected by the GMC.

See on www.bmj.com