PATIENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
You and the health service staff have certain specific rights and responsibilities
in your relationship with each other.
Your Rights Include the Right To:
* Medical care without discrimination based on race, religion, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation or disability.
* Be treated with respect, consideration and dignity.
*Prompt, reasonable, and courteous responses to any request for services within the capacity of the Student Health Service.
* Interpreter services when needed.
* Personal privacy.
* Receive care in a safe and secure environment, free from abuse or harassment.
* Participate fully in all aspects of your care as a partner in your care.
* Make informed decisions about your care or designate a representative to make decisions for you.
* Request a family member, friend, or personal partner be present during your appointment.
* Know the names and professional titles of your caregivers and be informed if any of your health care providers are in training.
* Complete and current information regarding the diagnosis, evaluation, treatment and prognosis in terms that you can understand.
* Be given an explanation of all procedures and to be informed about the outcome of your care.
* Receive assessment and management of your pain including information about pain and pain relief.
* Refuse treatment to the extent permitted by law and to be informed of the possible consequences of the refusal.
* Obtain a second opinion if you choose.
* Request a change of your health care provider.
* Confidentiality regarding your disclosures and records and an opportunity to approve or refuse their release as described in the University of Iowa Health Care Privacy Notice.
* View your medical records within the limits of the law.
* An explanation of all items on your bill.
* Express concerns or complaints regarding your care to SHS administration and participate in a formal grievance procedure.
* Receive information about advance directives, such as living wills, power of attorney, and Do Not Resuscitate orders. The SHS will respond to medical emergencies first, then search your medical record for any advanced directives.
* Refuse to participate in experimental research. A refusal to participate in research will never jeopardize subsequent care at the Student Health Service.
You Are Responsible For:
* Showing respect and courtesy to health professionals and other patients.
* Respecting the rights and property of others.
* Keeping your scheduled appointments or canceling your appointments as far in advance as possible, so that the time may be given to someone else.
* Providing accurate and complete information about all matters pertaining to your health, including medications, past or present medical problems, and/or any perceived risks.
* Notifying a member of the health care team if you do not understand information about your care or treatment.
* Following the treatment plan or discuss with your provider reasons for not following the plan. Accepting the consequences of your decision if you choose not to follow instructions or advice.
* Communicating with your health provider if your condition worsens or does not follow the expected course.
* Informing your physician, nurse, or other health care provider if you are not satisfied with any aspect of your care.
* Not lending your personal identification to others. This may lead to entries in the wrong medical record or errors in your treatment.
* Keeping your medication secure and not giving medication prescribed to you to others.
* Providing timely information regarding your health insurance.
* Paying your bills or making arrangements with the SHS to meet your financial obligations in a timely manner.
* Informing your provider if you have a living will, medical power of attorney or other legal directive that could affect your care.
Your Medical Records
*
The records made by the SHS are held in the same strict confidence as in other health care settings. *The entire medical record, including results of x-ray and laboratory reports, is the property of the SHS.
*The chart is a legal document, and neither the student nor the SHS has the right to destroy or alter the record or any portion thereof.
*Records are not shared with parents, faculty, administrators, or potential employers without your consent.
More information about your rights related to health information can be found in the brochure titled University of Iowa Health Care Privacy Notice. This brochure is available in the SHS waiting rooms and upon request.
The University of Iowa SHS is a University of Iowa department within the Division of Student Services. Information management systems are shared with University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics (UIHC). The SHS and UIHC are distinct University of Iowa organizations and bill separately for their services. Students are responsible for payment for services received at each of these health care organizations.
For more information about your rights and responsibilities, contact the Administrative Office at the Student Health Service, 335-8392.
Page updated: 1/30/09
