Patient rights and responsibilities

 

While you are a patient at St John of God Pinelodge Clinic you have the right to the best care, which will be provided:

• In a courteous and understanding manner respecting your dignity, physical privacy, beliefs, lifestyle, cultural and religious practices
• As promptly as possible whilst allowing you time, whenever possible, to consider your options

Your confidentiality will be respected and any details of your treatment or medical history will remain confidential. Confidentiality requirements prevent caregivers from discussing your condition outside the health care team. Unless required by law, confidential information will not be released without obtaining your consent. Your privacy is important to us.

You have the right to information on:

• The types of treatment available for your condition and the known risks involved in accepting or refusing a particular treatment. Your illness - so you can participate in the process of your treatment and care
• The medications that you are being given, including their benefits and side effects
• The nature, results and meaning of any tests or examinations

You may discharge yourself from St John of God Pinelodge Clinic against your doctor's advice although this means that you cannot hold St John of God Pinelodge Clinic responsible for the results of your decision.

Your responsibilities to yourself, Pinelodge Clinic and the needs of others include:

• Giving caregivers full and accurate details of your current and past health problems, information about any medication you are taking and whether you have any allergies or lifestyle habits that may affect your treatment or recovery
• Making sure you have a clear understanding of all aspects of your treatment and by carefully considering your consent to treatment
• Actively cooperating in your care wherever possible, including planning for your discharge and carefully following any instructions given to you when you leave St John of God Pinelodge Clinic

You can respect the needs of other patients by:

• Showing courtesy and consideration towards them
• Advising relatives and friends to visit in small groups during designated visiting hours.
• Observing St John of God Pinelodge Clinic's no smoking policy
• Ensuring your radio or television does not disturb others

You can help improve St John of God Pinelodge Clinic's services by:

• Providing relevant feedback on patient surveys
• Seeking further assistance from the Director of Nursing if caregivers involved in your care do not resolve any problems you may have