As a patient, you may feel you are at the mercy of doctors. You take the medicine, follow instructions and come back when instructed. But patients have rights, and you need to know yours before your next appointment.
1. Informed consent means you have the right to know the facts regarding your care. It means you can choose to consent to or refuse treatment. If you do not understand the pros and cons of a procedure or medication, your doctors have an obligation to explain them to you. No matter what their medical opinion may be, you have the right to accept or refuse care for yourself.
2. Understand that the Patient’s Bill of Rights is from the hospital’s view, not yours. These rights are valid to the degree that the hospital choses to enforce them. It is up to you to defend your own rights. Never assume that a hospital’s posting of this Bill of Rights has any reflection on the treatment you may receive.
3. You have certain responsibilities as a patient. Always provide your doctor and with accurate information. Take responsibility for understanding your health and treatment. If there is a reason that you cannot follow the prescribed treatment, discuss it with your doctor. Also, realize how your lifestyle affects your health. Medication is no substitute for poor habits.
4. Advanced directives are a way to express what kind of treatment you want if you become incapacitated. If illness or injury leave you unable to voice your wishes, a directive will make your desires known. Living wills are examples of advanced directives. An alternative is to give a trusted person medical power of attorney to make decisions for you.
A Florida medical malpractice lawyer can help you if you feel someone has violated your rights.
