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Decisional Capacity

Meaning

Decisional capacity, often termed mental capacity, is the clinical and legal determination of an individual’s ability to understand relevant information, appreciate the consequences of their choice, reason through treatment options, and communicate a consistent choice regarding their medical care. This assessment is fundamental to the principle of informed consent, especially when initiating complex or life-altering hormonal therapies. In endocrinology, assessing capacity is particularly relevant for pediatric and adolescent care or for patients with co-existing neurocognitive conditions that might impact judgment. A determination of capacity ensures the patient’s autonomy is respected in the treatment planning process.