Informed Consent Abroad: Understanding Your Rights

Colombian law requires informed consent before any medical procedure — the same fundamental patient right you have in the US. Here's what informed consent means in Colombia, what protections you have, and how to ensure your rights are respected.

What Colombian Law Requires

Colombian medical ethics law (Ley 23 de 1981) and subsequent regulations mandate that every patient receives:

• Clear explanation of the diagnosis and recommended procedure
• Description of risks, potential complications, and alternatives
• Expected outcomes and recovery timeline
• Opportunity to ask questions and receive answers
• Written consent form signed before the procedure

Your Rights as an International Patient

• Language: You have the right to understand what you're consenting to. Request consent forms in English. JCI hospitals typically provide bilingual documentation. If forms are only in Spanish, request a bilingual coordinator or professional translator.
• Time: You should receive consent forms before surgery day — not in the pre-op area minutes before going under. Request them during your consultation visit.
• Refusal: You have the absolute right to refuse any procedure at any point, including on the day of surgery. No pressure to proceed.
• Second opinion: You have the right to seek a second opinion before consenting to surgery.