What is considered the standard of care in OMM consent?

• A. Written consent is always required
• B. Verbal consent; sometimes written if extensive
• C. No consent is needed
• D. Oral consent is unacceptable

Answer: (B)

In OMM, the standard of care is obtaining informed consent from the patient before any manipulation. This is usually communicated verbally, making sure the patient understands the purpose, potential risks and benefits, and alternatives, and that they can ask questions. Written documentation is not universally required, but it is appropriate when the procedure is extensive, carries greater risk, or when policy or the setting requires it. Consent is an ongoing process, so it should be reaffirmed if treatment continues or changes. Written consent being always required is not accurate, there is no need for consent is incorrect, and oral consent being unacceptable is not correct—oral consent is acceptable, with written consent used when warranted.