patients' rights

patients' rights

The entitlement of patients, especially those in hospital, to considerate and respectful care, to information about what is being done to them or what is proposed and to knowledge of the diagnosis and probable outlook (prognosis). Patients are especially entitled to all information necessary to enable them to give informed consent to any surgical operation or other form of treatment, especially if associated with risk. Patients have a right to refuse treatment and to be informed of the probable consequences. They are entitled to privacy and confidentiality over their medical details and may not be included in any form of medical trial or experiment without their full knowledge and consent. Patients may discharge themselves from hospital at any time, but may be required to sign a document to the effect that they understand the possible consequences.

Collins Dictionary of Medicine © Robert M. Youngson 2004, 2005