How to manage consent in a therapy practice

Managing consent means being able to reconstruct its history: what was explained, who decided, its scope, the version in force, and when it changed.

A seven-step process

1. Prepare the right version. Separate care conditions, data information, and optional permissions.
2. Confirm who decides. Check identity, capacity, and representation.
3. Share the information. Allow time to read and provide a way to ask questions.
4. Record the response. Keep the date, version, identities, selected options, signature, and final document.
5. Check before relying on permission. Confirm that a specific authorisation exists, remains current, and covers the intended purpose.
6. Manage changes and withdrawal. Record the date, scope, and action taken without silently rewriting the previous record.
7. Retain with purpose. Set access and retention periods that match the practice and applicable rules.

Spanish Law 41/2002 sets a minimum five-year period for clinical documentation after discharge from each care process, without displacing regional rules or other obligations.

Start with the consent form model and review the separate considerations for minors and guardians.

With Clara's consent management, the form, responses, signature, status, and later changes remain connected to the clinical record. The current state is visible without losing the history behind it.

Official sources

• Spanish Law 41/2002, Article 17, BOE.
• Regulation (EU) 2016/679, EUR-Lex.

Information reviewed on September 5, 2026.