Patient Rights -
PATIENT RIGHTS -Developed by the American Hospital Association, the Patient Bill of Rights is a set of guidelines for hospitals, doctors, and other health care professionals to follow. They aren't rules or laws, though, so rights will vary from state-to-state, hospital-to-hospital. Here are some of the main issues covered by the Bill of Rights.
Medical Records
Access to your medical records is not a right in every state. Since laws about access to
medical records are drafted at the state level, your ability to get your records depends
on where you live. This is a prime reason to develop your own Medical History.
To find out more, contact the American Hospital Association.
Privacy Rights
Your doctor or other health care professional is not the only person who sees your medical
record. Health and life insurance companies can review your record, and so can your
employer. To find out who has access to your record, read the fine print on your health
and life insurance release forms.
Informed Consent
Informed consent is a legal entitlement. Before undergoing any medical or surgical
procedure, you have a right to receive an explanation of what is going to happen to you so
you can give your "informed consent." You should also be told about your
condition, the nature of the treatment as well as the risks and benefits associated with
the treatment, the prognosis, and a description of alternative therapies.
Patient Advocates
You have the right to bring a friend or relative with you to your exam. Formally known as
a "patient advocate," this person should be able to help with communication and
make sure you get appropriate care. It's also a good way to get moral support, especially
when you aren't feeling well. If you don't have someone to bring, you can ask if someone
in the examination room will act as your advocate.
PATIENT RESPONSIBILITIES
To maintain your good health, health care professionals and hospitals need your help. So
take charge, and take an active role in your well-being.