Informed Consent  policy

The journal requires all studies involving human participants to obtain informed consent before participation. Informed consent ensures that participants understand the nature, purpose, risks, and benefits of the study and voluntarily agree to participate. The data and information of individuals (e.g., Information obtained through A Doctor–Patient Relationship) must be handled with the highest levels of confidence and discretion.

It is therefore almost always necessary for authors to obtain written informed consent from any patients described in manuscript from those who are the subject of photographs. However, a manuscript may be published without explicit consent if it meets all three of the following conditions:

1. It is of great significance to public health (or is important in some other way).

2. Consent would be unusually difficult to obtain.

3. A reasonable individual would be unlikely to object to publication.

Requirements for Informed Consent

Authors must confirm in their manuscript that:

a. Informed consent was obtained from all participants or their guardians prior to data collection.

b. The consent process provided participants with clear and comprehensible information about the study.

c. Participants were informed of their right to withdraw at any time without consequences.

d. If applicable, consent was obtained for the publication of identifying information, including images or personal details.

e. Confidentiality and data protection measures were in place to safeguard participant information.

Methods of Informed Consent

Informed consent may be obtained through different methods, including but not limited to:

1. Written Consent: Signed consent forms provided by participants or their representatives.

2. Electronic Consent: Digital signatures or electronic consent forms used in online surveys or remote research.

3. Implicit Consent: In specific low-risk studies, such as anonymized surveys, participation itself may imply consent, provided that clear information is given upfront.

The chosen method must be appropriate to the study design and ethical guidelines, ensuring participant comprehension and voluntary participation.