Patient’s Bill of Rights and Responsibilities

Patient’s Bill of Rights and Responsibilities
Section 381.026, Florida Statutes

A patient has the right to

• Be treated with courtesy and respect, with appreciation of his or her dignity, and with protection of privacy. Receive a prompt and reasonable response to questions and requests.
• Know who is providing medical services and is responsible for his or her care.
• Know what patient support services are available, including if an interpreter is available if the patient does not speak English.
• Know what rules and regulations apply to his or her conduct.
• Be given by the health care provider information such as diagnosis, planned course of treatment, alternatives, risks, and prognosis.
• Refuse any treatment, except as otherwise provided by law.
• Be given full information and necessary counseling on the availability of known financial resources for care.
• Know whether the health care provider or facility accepts the Medicare assignment rate, if the patient is covered by Medicare.
• Receive, prior to treatment, a reasonable estimate of charges for medical care.
• Receive a copy of an understandable itemized bill and, if requested, to have the charges.
• Receive medical treatment or accommodations, regardless of race, national origin, religion, handicap, or source of payment.
• Receive treatment for any emergency medical condition that will deteriorate from failure to provide treatment.
• Know if medical treatment is for purposes of experimental research and to give his or her consent or refusal to participate in such research.
• Express complaints regarding any violation of his or her rights.

  
  

A patient is responsible for

• Giving the health care provider accurate information about present complaints, past illnesses, hospitalizations, medications, and any other information about his or her health.
• Reporting unexpected changes in his or her condition to the health care provider.
• Reporting to the health care provider whether he or she understands a planned course of action and what is expected of him or her.
• Following the treatment plan recommended by the health care provider.
• Keeping appointments and, when unable to do so, notifying the health care provider or facility.
• His or her actions if treatment is refused or if the patient does not follow the health care provider’s instructions.
• Making sure financial responsibilities are carried out.
• Following health care facility conduct rules and regulations.

  
  

Agency for Health Care Administration – Visit us at www.FloridaHealthFinder.gov

If you have questions or concerns, please contact or office. 656-227-9547 phone