Patients Rights & Responsibilities
PATIENT’S RIGHTS
The patient has a right:
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to receive confidential treatment of their disclosures and medical records and, except when required by law, is to be given the opportunity to approve or refuse their release;
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to be treated with respect and dignity and to be provided with courteous, considerate care;
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to be informed about the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of the health problem in terms that can be understood;
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to know the chances that treatment will be effective and to know the possible risks, side effects and alternative methods of treatment;
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to know who is responsible for providing treatment;
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to have access to a second medical opinion before making any decisions;
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to refuse treatment or referral;
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to participate in decisions involving the health problem;
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to be informed of the personal responsibilities involved in seeking medical treatment and maintaining health and well-being thereafter;
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to privacy;
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to have access to resource persons and information concerning health education, self-care and prevention of illness.
PATIENT’S RESPONSIBILITIES
The patient has a responsibility:
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to inform the provider of any changes in their health status that could affect their treatment;
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to adhere to a prescribed treatment plan and to discuss any desired change;
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to act in a considerate and cooperative manner with Student Health Service staff;
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to ask questions and seek clarification regarding areas of concern;
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to weigh the consequences of refusing to comply with instructions and recommendations;
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to assist the providers in compiling a complete record by authorizing the Student Health Service to obtain necessary medical information from appropriate sources;
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to make appointments and be on time;
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to cancel appointments only when absolutely necessary and far enough in advance so that other patients might utilize the time.
Joan Osthues, RN, C
Director, Health Services