Consent is an agreement between two or more parties in consuming an act, which is a fundamental process in both ethics and law. It is particularly relevant to the interaction between an individual and a healthcare professional (HCP) (or someone acting on their behalf). This is because without consent many actions that are integral parts healthcare (such as medical examinations or treatments) and research are unlawful.

When a person seeks another's consent, it shows that they recognise that people should be able to make their own autonomous decisions. It shows respect for another's right to self-govern, to control their own destiny.

Watch the video for examples on the use of consent in clinical and research settings.