Legal Definitions - patient's bill of rights

A patient's bill of rights is a set of guidelines that healthcare providers voluntarily adopt or are mandated by law to follow. It outlines the rights of patients and covers various aspects of healthcare, including access to care, patient dignity and confidentiality, personal safety, consent to treatment, and explanation of charges.

• Access to care: Patients have the right to receive timely and appropriate healthcare services without discriminationbased on race, gender, age, or any other factor.
• Patient dignity and confidentiality: Patients have the right to be treated with respect and dignity, and their personal and medical information must be kept confidential.
• Personal safety: Patients have the right to receive care in a safe and secure environment, free from any form of abuse or neglect.
• Consent to treatment: Patients have the right to be informed about their medical condition, the proposed treatment, and any potential risks or benefits. They have the right to refuse treatment or to request a second opinion.
• Explanation of charges: Patients have the right to receive a clear and detailed explanation of all charges related to their healthcare services, including any insurance coverage or out-of-pocket expenses.

These examples illustrate how a patient's bill of rights protects the rights and interests of patients in various aspects of healthcare. By following these guidelines, healthcare providers can ensure that patients receive high-quality care that is respectful, safe, and transparent.