Informed consent in medical interventions and its legal framework in the context of emerging technologies

This thesis addresses the legal nature of informed consent in medical interventions and examines how emerging technologies can improve this process. In Turkish law, the legality of a medical intervention depends on four key conditions: it must be performed by authorized individuals, have a legitimate purpose, comply with current medical standards, and be based on the informed consent of the patient. If any of these conditions are not met, the intervention becomes unlawful and may lead to criminal, civil, or administrative liability for the physician. The study thoroughly explores the historical development, legal foundations, formal requirements, and scope of informed consent. It also reviews judicial decisions regarding the responsibilities of physicians in this context. Furthermore, the study evaluates how new technologies, such as multimedia-supported communication methods and personalized risk assessment tools, can enhance the effectiveness and clarity of the consent process. The findings highlight the necessity of a comprehensive informed consent framework that addresses legal, ethical, and practical dimensions to ensure both patient protection and professional accountability.