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A qualitative study using in-depth interviews was carried out among patients and doctors working in a private hospital in Tamil Nadu, to understand perceptions of informed consent. Audio-recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and a framework analytical approach was used in analysis. Emergent themes ranged from perceptions on informed consent, and discussing health concerns and decision making, to information provided by and expectations from doctors, and suggestions for improvement. Most patients were unfamiliar with the kind of information provided in the informed consent process; a few felt that the information was inadequate. Decision making about surgery was left mostly to the doctor. Poor literacy in patients was seen as a barrier to effective communication by doctors. Developing local language versions of consent forms supported by audiovisual aids is needed for patients to take a proactive role in their treatment process, and for doctors to be receptive to patients' needs and capacities.

Purpose: This study examined whether micro-savings programs can improve young adolescent girls' financial knowledge, savings behaviors, and schooling outcomes in Ghana. Methods:We evaluated the short-and medium-term effects of a randomized control trial in which a sub-sample of over 1400 girls living in the Eastern Region of Ghana received financial literacy training and a micro-savings account.Results: Girls in the intervention arm of the study initially exhibited higher levels of financial knowledge, planning, and savings, but some of these effects disappeared within two years. Nonetheless, girls with micro-savings retained their greater knowledge of interest rates, had higher levels of savings, and were more likely to save for school. The effects on girls' educational enrollment was strongest in the second year.Conclusions: Our results suggest that even relatively young girls can manage micro-savings accounts and that such programs, if sustained, can effectively build girls' financial and educational assets.

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