Patient Rights and Responsibilities

Here is a listing of patient rights that should be respected by any medical institution, clinic  and healthcare workers who have the privilege and duty to care for patients. Patients who understand their rights can help them make informed decisions about their health and ensure a positive experience during their care.

Patient Rights

1. Right to Respectful and Dignified Care: You have the right to receive care in a respectful and compassionate manner, regardless of your age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or financial status.

2. Right to Privacy and Confidentiality: Your medical records and personal information are confidential. We will only share this information with your consent or as required by law.

3. Right to Informed Consent: You have the right to receive clear, understandable information about your diagnosis, treatment options, and potential risks. You can choose to consent to or refuse treatment based on this information.

4. Right to Access Your Medical Records: You have the right to review and request copies of your medical records. Your doctor's office will assist you in understanding the information contained within your records.

5. Right to Participate in Decisions About Your Care: You have the right to be actively involved in all decisions regarding your care plan. Your preferences, values, and cultural beliefs will be considered.

6. Right to Refuse Treatment: You can decline any treatment or procedure, even if it has been recommended. We will inform you of the potential outcomes and risks associated with your decision.

7. Right to Safe and High-Quality Care: You have the right to receive care in a safe environment from qualified professionals who adhere to the highest standards of medical practice.

8. Right to Report Concerns: You have the right to voice concerns or complaints about the care you receive without fear of retaliation. Your feedback helps to improve services.

(The next one is not standardized yet but is promoted by CVMS.)

9. (Advocated by CVMS) Right to choose their physician:  You have the right to choose your physician without retribution or adverse consequences either monetarily or otherwise regardless of insurance company mandates, so long as you and the physician agree.

How to Exercise Your Rights: If you have questions about your rights or need assistance, please contact us at cvmedsoc@gmail.com, or your nearest patient advocate.

Additional Resources: Your health and well-being are top priorities. Understanding your rights is an important part of ensuring a collaborative and supportive care experience.

• U.S. State Department - https://www.state.gov/patient-bill-of-rights-and-responsibilities/

Patient Responsibilities

Patient Responsibilities: Understanding Your Role in Your Care

Healthcare is a partnership between patients, families, and healthcare providers. While you have rights, you also have responsibilities to ensure a safe, respectful, and effective care experience for yourself and others.

Your Responsibilities as a Patient:

1. Provide Accurate Information: You are responsible for providing complete and accurate information about your medical history, current medications, allergies, and any other details that may affect your care.

2. Ask Questions: If you do not understand your diagnosis, treatment plan, or the instructions given, it is your responsibility to ask questions. Ensuring clarity helps in making informed decisions about your care.

3. Follow Your Care Plan: You are responsible for following the treatment plan agreed upon with your healthcare provider. This includes taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and adhering to lifestyle recommendations.

4. Respect the Rights of Others: You are responsible for treating healthcare staff and other patients with respect and consideration. This includes following facility rules, maintaining a peaceful environment, and avoiding disruptive behavior.

5. Understand and Accept Consequences: If you choose to decline recommended treatments or do not follow your care plan, you are responsible for understanding the potential consequences of those decisions.

6. Communicate Changes in Your Condition: It is your responsibility to inform your healthcare provider about any changes in your condition, symptoms, or reactions to treatment promptly.

7. Be Honest About Your Needs: Let us know if you have concerns or require accommodations related to your care. This includes language interpretation services, dietary restrictions, or mobility assistance.

8. Respect Policies and Procedures: You are responsible for abiding by the rules and policies of the healthcare facility, including visitation rules, infection prevention measures, and financial obligations.

9. Keep Appointments: If you cannot attend a scheduled appointment, it is your responsibility to notify the healthcare facility as soon as possible to reschedule.

10. Manage Financial Obligations: You are responsible for understanding your insurance coverage and paying any costs associated with your care in a timely manner. Assistance is available if you have questions or need help with billing.

Working Together for Better Care

Your active participation and cooperation are essential in achieving the best possible outcomes for your health. By fulfilling these responsibilities, you contribute to a safer and more efficient healthcare system for yourself and others.

If you have questions about your responsibilities or need assistance, please contact us at cvmedsoc@gmail.com, or your nearest patient advocate.

• U.S. State Department - https://www.state.gov/patient-bill-of-rights-and-responsibilities/

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Stay up to date on issues and news you need to know. The CVMS Bulletin is published monthly and will list concerns that local physicians have expressed about healthcare in Coastal Virginia and how we can make it better. We will provide potential solutions and let you know what is happening behind the scenes to help solve these problems. Membership is not currently required to receive the newsletter.