Legal Minute: What is informed consent in clinical trials?

Informed consent is a crucial aspect of clinical trials, ensuring that prospective subjects understand the benefits, risks, and potential harms of participating in a study. This process involves full disclosure of information, allowing subjects to ask questions and address concerns with a knowledgeable medical professional. For minors, parental involvement is required, and subjects have the right to withdraw consent at any time. It's not merely a form but an ongoing process that starts b...