Patient Expectations and Responsibilities
As a patient you can expect:
- To be treated with courtesy and respect.
- To choose to have a relative or friend with you during consultation and examinations.
- To have prompt and reasonable responses to your questions and requests.
- The right to privacy – all communications and records pertaining to your care will be treated confidentially. No one is entitled to information about your medical history without your written approval.
- The right to review your medical records and have the information explained or interpreted as necessary.
- The right to refuse any medical treatment, except as otherwise provided by law.
- Staff to understand that you might be feeling anxious and vulnerable and that this may affect the way you behave,.
- To have the right to complain if you are unhappy with the treatment you receive.
As a patient you have a responsibility to:
- Treat the staff who care for you with courtesy and respect at all times.
- To attend appointments on time, or give reasonable notice of inability to attend.
- To provide accurate and complete information about your present conditions and any other matters relating to your health.
- Follow the treatment plan recommended by your doctor or nurse.
- Tell staff if you are uncertain or do not understand any aspect of your treatment.