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 a 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 identity 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.
10.
The patient has a legal right to all the information contained in his or her medical
record while in the health care facility and to examine the record upon request.
11.
We recognize the right of a patient to discuss his or her condition with a
consultant-specialist at his or her own request and his or her own expense.
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