Many accident victims are taken to hospitals unaware of their rights – and too often not aware that they have responsibilities as well! We would like to share some of these rights and responsibilities:
Patient Rights and Responsibilities
The following list of patient rights is not intended to be all inclusive. Every patient has the right to:
* Be treated with dignity and respect
* Privacy and confidentiality concerning their medical care – the patient has the right to be advised as to the reason for the presence of any individual directly involved or observing their care
* Have their questions, concerns or complaints addressed in good faith
* Be provided with complete information about their diagnosis, indications for tests and procedures, treatment and alternatives, prognosis, and both normal and abnormal test results. Such communication will be in a timely manner.
* Make choices and decisions regarding their medical care to the extent permitted by law – this includes the right to refuse treatment
* Change physicians if other qualified physicians are available
* Receive, on request, information about fees and charges, and receive an explanation of their bill, regardless of source of payment
* Receive, on request, and at a reasonable fee a copy of their medical record
* Have an advance directive concerning treatment or designation of a surrogate decision maker
* Exercise these rights without regard to gender, cultural, economic, educational or religious background
Patient Responsibilities
The care a patient receives depends partially on the patient himself. Therefore, in addition to these rights, a patient has certain responsibilities as well. These responsibilities shall be presented to the patient in the spirit of mutual trust and respect.
The patient has the responsibility to:
* Provide accurate and complete information concerning his/her present complaints, past medical history, and other matters relating to his/her health
* Make it known whether he/she clearly comprehends the course of his/her medical treatment and what is expected of him/her
* Follow the treatment plan established by his/her physician, including the instructions of nurses and other health professionals, as they carry out the physician’s orders
* Keep appointments and notify the hospital or physician when unable to do so
* Accept responsibility for his/her actions should he/she refuse treatment or not follow his/her physician’s orders
* Assure that financial obligations of his/her care are fulfilled as promptly as possible
* Follow the medical facility’s policies and procedures
* Be considerate of the rights and property of other patients and facility personnel