Patient Rights & Responsibilities

As a patient, you have the right to:

  • Considerate and respectful care.
  • Receive information about your illness and treatment in terms you can understand.
  • Actively participate in decisions about your medical care.
  • Refuse recommended treatment, tests or procedures.
  • Sign an advanced directive, such as a living will.
  • Confidentiality of communications and medical records, except as required by law.
  • Review your medical records and have the information explained, except as restricted by law.
  • Know the names of your caregivers.
  • Present any complaints you may have.
  • Be informed of policies and practices that relate to patient care, treatment and responsibilities.

As a patient, you have the responsibility to:

  • Be considerate and respectful of the medical staff, clinic staff and other patients.
  • Ask questions and seek clarification about your health status or treatment when you do not fully understand information or instructions.
  • Participate in decisions involving your health care.
  • Provide a complete and accurate medical history to the best of your knowledge.
  • Provide a copy of an advance directive if you already have one.
  • Inform your caregiver if you anticipate problems in following prescribed treatment.
  • Provide accurate and timely information about sources of payment and your ability to meet your financial obligation.
  • Recognize the impact of your lifestyle on your personal health.