Access to Care: The right to receive healthcare services regardless of race, gender, religion, status, or disability. Equal treatment in emergencies and urgent care settings.
· Informed
Consent: The right to receive clear, accurate
information about diagnosis, treatment options, risks, and benefits. Patients can decide whether to accept or
refuse care.
· Privacy and
Confidentiality: The right to have personal health information
protected (e.g., under laws like GDPR in the UK).
· Dignity and
Respect: The right to be treated with compassion,
respect, and dignity throughout their care journey.
· Participation
in Decision-Making: Patients have the right to participate in
creating their care plan, including the ability to seek second opinions or
alternative treatments.
· Right to
Complain: The right to voice concerns, complaints, or
grievances without fear of discrimination or reprisal.
· Timely and
Appropriate Care: The right to receive care within reasonable
timeframes, particularly for conditions requiring urgent attention.
· Access to
Records: The right to view, obtain, or request
corrections to their medical records.
The Role Patients Play in Healthcare
Patients are no longer passive recipients of care but active participants in maintaining and improving their health. Their role includes:
Engaging in Self-Care: Adopting healthy behaviours such as proper diet, regular exercise, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking.
· Providing
Accurate Information: Sharing complete and truthful medical
histories, including current symptoms, medications, and any complementary
therapies they use.
· Participating
in Decision-Making: Engaging in discussions about treatment
options and voicing their preferences or concerns.
· Following
Agreed Treatment Plans: Adhering to prescribed medications,
therapies, or lifestyle changes and attending follow-up appointments.
· Using
Healthcare Resources Responsibly: Avoiding
unnecessary use of emergency services for non-urgent conditions and scheduling
routine appointments.
· Advocating
for Themselves: Asking questions when unsure, requesting
clarification, and seeking second opinions if needed.
· Providing
Feedback: Offering constructive feedback to improve
healthcare services or processes, such as through patient surveys or
complaints.
· Participating
in Preventive Health Programs: Taking
part in screenings, vaccinations, or educational programs designed to detect or
prevent diseases early.
