At what point can a patient refuse treatment?

A patient has the right to refuse treatment at any time during the course of their care. This is rooted in the principle of autonomy, which acknowledges that patients have the right to make decisions regarding their own health and medical care. This includes the right to decline treatment after it has started, as patients can change their minds based on how they feel or new information they may receive about their condition or treatment options.

The concept of informed consent supports this right, which requires that patients be fully informed about their treatment and its implications before undergoing any procedure or intervention. It is important for healthcare providers to respect a patient's decision to refuse treatment at any stage, ensuring that the patient is aware of the potential outcomes of their choice. This upholds not just the ethical standards of medical practice but also legal protections for patient rights.