Patient Rights and Responsibilities

Patient Rights
Patients have the right to: Safety and Respect

A safe environment. Be treated in a considerate and respectful manner. Know the full name and role of those involved in their care.

Privacy and Confidentiality

Have their personal health information treated in confidence, and used and disclosed

respecting their wishes

Consent or refuse the collection, use and disclosure of their personal health information (PHI) Access their Personal Health Information (PHI), either to view or receive a copy following the approved procedure Request changes if they feel their information is inaccurate or incomplete Know who has accessed/used their PHI Request an audit of who has accessed their PHI Know to whom their PHI has been disclosed Challenge the hospitals compliance with Privacy laws. Care and Treatment

Receive relevant information about their illness, including diagnosis, treatment, prognosis and post-discharge care, communicated in a way that they understand. Receive all information necessary to give informed consent to proposed treatment, including known risks, alternatives and cost implications, if any. Refuse treatment and be informed of the health risks of their decision. Participate actively in their care planning and in decision-making related to care. Receive complete information about any research project in which they are asked to participate with the option to refuse to participate without it affecting care. Be informed if unintended, unexpected and preventable events that result in harm occur during care. Provide the hospital with an Advance Care Directive.

Access to the Complaints Resolution Process

Ask questions and express concerns about hospital health care and services, without fear of reprisal. Be provided with information about and assistance with accessing the complaints.

Patient Responsibilities
Patients are responsible for: Active Partnering in Care Providing accurate information about past illnesses, allergic reactions to medication or food, current health and family health history Bringing in home medications when admitted to hospital, including complementary or alternative medications Participating with the health care team in treatment and rehabilitation Asking questions to clarify information Sharing any concerns about care with the health care team Obtaining information needed for care after discharge from hospital Recognizing the risks and consequences of refusing treatment and/or leaving the hospital against medical advice

Courtesy and Respect

Treating others in the hospital with consideration and respect Observing all applicable hospital rules and regulations

Using Health Care Resources Wisely

Advising the hospital as early as possible and at least 24 hours in advance if unable to keep an appointment Arranging for discharge when the attending physician decides discharge is appropriate Personal Property and Financial Obligations

All financial obligations incurred in care The safekeeping of personal property, valuables and patients own medications while in hospital