Patient Rights and Responsibilities

Patient Rights

Patients have the right to:

  • be treated with respect, consideration, and dignity.
  • privacy during examinations, treatments, discussions, and consultations involving their health care.
  • be able to communicate their concerns in their native language.
  • approve or refuse the release of records and information, except when a release of records is required by law. To the extent possible, patients will be informed that records are required to be released.
  • (to the degree known) complete information regarding their diagnosis, evaluation, treatment, and prognosis except in the case when it may be medically inadvisable to do so. In this case, a person designated by the patient or legally authorized person will be provided with the information.
  • participate in decisions pertaining to their health care unless it is medically contraindicated.
  • refuse to be examined or treated and to be informed of the consequences of such decisions.
  • request care from an alternative provider.
  • be provided with referral resources for specialty care including dental, cardiology, neurology, orthopedic, mental health, or other services not available within RIH.
  • accurate marketing or advertising regarding the competence, credentialing, and capabilities of RIH and its health care providers.
  • information regarding the procedures for expressing suggestions, complaints, and grievances, including those required by state and federal laws.
  • communicate any violation of these principles to the RIH administration.

Patients can expect all records and disclosures to be treated confidentially and are entitled to a copy of Retriever Integrated Health’s Notice of Privacy Practices.

Patients will be given adequate instructions for care, including diet, exercise, medication, and other treatment plan components.

Patients have the right to information concerning:

  • Their rights, conduct, and responsibilities as patients
  • Available services
  • Hours of operation and provisions for after-hours and emergency coverage
  • Fees for service and payment policies
  • Data contained in medical records and disclosure policies
  • Referral resources
  • Refusal rights for participation in research
  • Advance directives as required by state and federal regulations
  • Malpractice insurance coverage

Patient Responsibilities

Patients should provide complete and accurate information regarding their health, to the best of their ability, including:

  • Prescription medications
  • Over-the-counter products/medications
  • Herbal remedies
  • Supplements and vitamins
  • Allergies and sensitivities
  • Use of alcohol or other drugs, including tobacco
  • Alternative health care such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and physical therapy

To the extent possible, patients are to arrange for transportation by a responsible adult when necessary and to work with RIH personnel to resolve transportation issues for the protection of the patient, the healthcare professionals, and the facility.

Patients are expected to disclose any pertinent legal documents such as advance directives, living wills, medical power of attorney, guardianship, or other directives that could affect their health care.

Patients are expected to assume financial responsibility for their care.

Patients are expected to be respectful of all RIH staff, student employees, healthcare providers, and other patients/clients.