As a patient, you play a vital role in making your care safe. Become an an active, involved and informed member of your healthcare team by:
- Speaking up if you have questions or concerns. If you don’t understand, ask again. It’s your body, and you have a right to know.
- Paying attention to the care you are receiving. Make sure you’re getting the right treatments and medications by the right healthcare professionals. Don’t assume anything.
- Educating yourself about your diagnosis, the medical tests you are undergoing and your treatment plan.
- Asking a trusted family member or friend to be your advocate. Your advocate can ask questions that you may not think of while you are under stress.
- Knowing what medications you take and why you take them. Your physician or nurse will answer any questions you may have concerning your medications.
- Participating in all decisions about your treatment. You are the center of the healthcare team.
As a patient, you have:
- The right to considerate, respectful care.
- The right to know the names of doctors caring for you and which doctor is coordinating your care.
- The right to receive information concerning your care and condition in terms you can understand. You also have the right to receive information necessary to give informed consent before the start of any procedure. Except in emergencies, this information usually includes a description of the procedure, significant risks involved, how long you may be incapacitated and reasonable medical alternatives.
- The right to consult with another doctor at your own request and expense.
- The right to contact the department manager if you have concerns with the care you received while hospitalized.
- The right to refuse treatment and to be informed of the medical consequences of your refusal.
- The right to privacy in the performance of your medical care.
- The right to confidentiality of records and communications regarding your care.
- The right to give or withhold your consent to participate in research projects or procedures.
- The right to receive care in a safe setting.
- The right to be free from all forms of abuse and harassment.
- The right to access information contained in your clinical records within a reasonable time frame.
- The right to have concerns about your care addressed.
- The right to have his or her cultural, psychosocial, spiritual and personal values, beliefs and preferences respected.