Question 1

What is the informed consent standard in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Canadian informed consent follows the modified objective test from Reibl v. Hughes (SCC 1980): would a reasonable person in the patient's position have consented if properly informed of all material risks?

Question 2

What privacy laws protect medical information in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Medical information is protected by provincial health information acts (PHIPA in Ontario, HIA in Alberta, FIPPA in BC) and PIPEDA for private-sector health providers. There is no HIPAA equivalent.

Question 3

Who can consent for a patient who is incapable?

Accepted Answer

Provincial Health Care Consent Acts establish a hierarchy of substitute decision-makers: guardian, attorney for personal care, spouse/partner, parent, sibling, or other relative.

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