Narrative medicine and decision-making capacity

Abstract

Rationale, aims and objectives: The author proposes a new model for the assessment of decision-making capacity based on the principles of narrative medicine. The narrative method proposed by the author addresses the hidden power realtionships implicit in the current model of capacity assessment.

Methods: Sample cases are reviewed using the traditional model in comparison with the narrative model.

Results: Narrative medicine provides an effective model for the assessment of decision-making capacity.

Conclusions: Deficiencies in the traditional model capacity assessment can be effectively addressed using narrative strategies.

Keywords: capacity; ethics; narrative medicine.