APPENDIX B
A MODEL OF THE PATIENT'S BILL OF RIGHTS
1. The patient has a legal right to informed participation in all decisions involving his or
her health care program.
2. We recognize the right of all potential patients to know what research and
experimental protocols are being used in our facility and what alternatives are available
in the community.
3. The patient has a legal right to privacy respecting the source of payment for
treatment and care. The right includes access to the highest degree of care without
regard to the source of payment for that treatment and care.
4. We recognize the right of a potential patient to complete and accurate information
concerning medical care and procedures.
5. The patient has a legal right to prompt attention, especially in an emergency
situation.
6. The patient has a legal right to a clear, concise explanation of all proposed
procedures in layman's terms, including the possibilities of any risk of mortality or serious
side effects, problems related to recuperation, and probability of success. He or she will
not be subjected to any procedure without his or her voluntary, competent, and
understanding consent. The specifics of such consent shall be set out in a written
consent form signed by the patient.
7. The patient has a legal right to clear, complete, and accurate evaluation of his or her
condition and prognosis without treatment before he or she is asked to consent to any
test or procedure.
8. We recognize the right of the patient to know the identify and professional status of
all those providing service. All personnel have been instructed to introduce themselves,
state their status, and explain their role in the health care of the patient. Part of this right
is the right to know the physician responsible for his/her care.
9. We recognize the right of any patient who does not speak English to have access to
an interpreter.
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