Patient's Rights & Responsibilities

Patient's Rights

The patient has a right…

To be treated with respect and dignity and to be provided with courteous, considerate care
To be informed about the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of the health problem in terms that can be understood
To know the chances that treatment will be effective and to know the possible risks, side effects and alternative methods of treatment
To receive confidential treatment of their disclosures and medical records and, except when required by law, is afforded the opportunity to approve or refuse release; to know who is responsible for providing treatment
To have access to a second medical opinion before making any decision. The patient can decide not to be treated, but must be informed of the medical consequences of refusal
To participate in decisions involving the health problem
To be informed of the personal responsibilities involved in seeking medical treatment and maintaining health and well-being thereafter
To privacy of person and privacy of personal health information
To have access to resource persons and information concerning health education, self-care and prevention of illness

Patient's Responsibilities

The patient has the responsibility…

To inform clinician of any changes in their health status that could affect their treatment
To adhere to a prescribed treatment plan and to discuss any desired change
To act in a considerate and cooperative manner with the Student Health Services staff
To ask questions and seek clarification regarding areas of concern
To weigh the consequences of refusing to comply with instructions and recommendations
To assist the clinicians in compiling a complete record by authorizing the Student Health Services to obtain necessary medical information from appropriate sources
To keep appointment on time
To cancel appointments only when absolutely necessary, and far enough in advance so that other patients might utilize that time