What is substituted consent?

Substituted consent is a legal and ethical concept used when an individual is unable to provide informed consent for medical treatment or participation in research due to incapacity, such as illness or cognitive impairment. In such cases, a legally authorized representative, like a family member or a designated guardian, can make decisions on behalf of the individual, aiming to reflect their best interests and previously expressed wishes. This ensures that the individual's rights and preferences are respected even when they cannot advocate for themselves.