Every person has the right to safe, respectful and good-quality health care. Knowing your rights — and your responsibilities — helps you get the care you need.
As a patient, you have the right to:
- Emergency careReceive emergency treatment without delay.
- InformationBe told about your illness, treatment options, risks and costs in a language you understand.
- ConsentAgree to or refuse a test, operation or treatment after it has been explained.
- PrivacyHave your health information kept confidential.
- Dignity and equalityBe treated with respect, without discrimination.
- Your recordsGet your reports and a copy of your medical records.
- Second opinionConsult another doctor.
- ComplainRaise a complaint and have it heard.
Your responsibilities
- Give correct and complete information about your health and medicines.
- Follow the treatment you agreed to, and tell the doctor if you stop.
- Respect health workers and other patients, and follow hospital rules.
- Pay fees that apply, or ask about schemes that can help.
Patient safety: protect yourself
- Ask questions. What is my diagnosis? What are my options? What will happen if I do nothing?
- Know your medicines. Keep a list of all medicines you take and show it to every doctor.
- Check your identity. Make sure staff check your name before giving medicine, blood or doing a procedure.
- Clean hands. It is OK to ask health workers if they have cleaned their hands.
- Bring someone with you. A family member can listen, ask questions and help you remember.
- Before you go home, make sure you understand your medicines, warning signs and follow-up date.
How to raise a complaint
Speak first with the doctor or nurse in charge. Most hospitals have a help desk, a grievance officer or a complaint box. If the problem is not solved, contact the hospital management, your local health authority, or the relevant professional council.
This page is general information. Please check the latest national laws and your hospital’s own patient charter for details.