Coercive Control in Healthcare
Coercive control in healthcare refers to the subtle or overt ways in which patients are pressured into accepting certain medical treatments without fully understanding or freely consenting to them. This can involve limiting a patient’s autonomy by not providing all treatment options, using fear to push quick decisions, or minimizing the importance of informed consent. It often stems from power imbalances between healthcare providers and patients, where the patient’s concerns, cultural preferences, or questions are dismissed, leaving them feeling powerless or unheard.
This dynamic is harmful as it undermines trust, can lead to inappropriate treatments, and diminishes a patient’s control over their health decisions. Holistic healthcare emphasizes empowering patients by giving them full information, involving them in every step of their care, and respecting their autonomy, fostering an environment of true informed consent and collaboration.
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