A physician describes a procedure, including risks and alternatives, to a patient. What is this process called?

The process described in the question is referred to as informed consent. This is a fundamental principle in medical ethics and legal practice, which ensures that patients are fully informed about the procedures they may undergo. Informed consent involves explaining not only the nature of the proposed procedure but also any associated risks, potential benefits, and alternative options available to the patient. This allows the patient to make an educated decision regarding their healthcare.

Informed consent goes beyond merely obtaining a signature on a document; it embodies the respectful communication between a physician and a patient that affirms the patient's autonomy and right to make decisions about their own body and treatment. This process is crucial for building trust and ensuring that patients feel empowered about their healthcare choices.

The other options describe different aspects of patient care and communication. Patient confidentiality pertains to the obligation of keeping patient information private. Medical history assessment refers to the process of gathering information about a patient’s past health and medical treatments. Patient education involves informing patients about their health conditions and treatments in broad terms but does not specifically include the consent process regarding specific procedures. All of these concepts are important in healthcare, but they serve different purposes and contexts compared to informed consent.