This principle of informed consent is one of the most important component. Decision-making capacity, or competency, simply means that you can understand and explain the options, their implications, and give a rational reason why you would decide on a particular option instead of the others.

This principle of informed consent states that one should be provided with all relevant information. In order for one to give  informed consent for treatment or tests, health and social care provider must give (or disclose) enough information so as to make informed decision. It is not necessary to receive every detail of the test, treatment, or procedure. This principle of consent should include the risks and likelihood (or probability) of each of the risks and the benefits, and likelihood (or probability) of benefit. Health and social care providers should fully explain any questions , in language and terminology that patient can understand.

• Information of the medical condition that warrants the test, procedure, or treatment
• An explanation of the purpose and benefits of the proposed test, procedure, or treatment
• Description of the proposed test, procedure, or treatment, including possible complications or adverse events
• A disclosure of alternative treatments, procedures, or tests, if any, and their relative benefits and risks
• A discussion of the consequences of not accepting the test, procedure, or treatment

Both doctors and patients should sign and fill the date in the consent form in health and social care setting.  Additionally, you may ask for a copy of the signed consent form.

Court of law can can  hold one accountable for their decisions if they are incompetent in their duties . Further, competency is often used loosely in health and social care to indicate whether a person has decision-making capacity, as described in the principle of decision making.