The process of informed consent is complex and continues to evolve. The codification
of patient rights and a better understanding of health provider obligations have been
important steps forward. These now need to be matched by the development of patient
obligations and health provider rights.5 This would help to bring a balance to this
process, moving away from an overemphasis on patient autonomy11 and towards a
partnership between patient and health provider. It is helpful to consider informed
consent as a process of shared decision making12 and to determine the readiness and
willingness of a patient to participate in that process. There are still many patients
who willingly adopt a passive approach to informed consent, while others seek active
participation in all phases of the process.