Patient Rights and Responsibilities

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When being treated by any health care professional you have some rights:

The best and most responsible medical treatment that is available by your provider without discrimination of ethnic or national origin, sexual orientation, religion, ability to pay, addictions history, or source of payment.
To ask questions, have tests and procedures explained to you in the language you understand.
To know what medications are being prescribed to you and why, and provided information on all possible side effects.
To refuse tests or treatment for any reason.
To seek second opinions or answers to your questions from other sources.
To be treated with dignity and respect.
To have someone with you when you talk to your provider.
Honest and confidental care.

When seeking treatment from other health professionals such as, dentists, physical therapists, and mental health providers, ask your provider or your case manager for referrals to professionals who have experience treating HIV/AIDs positive patients.

It is highly recommended that when you need to see a dentist, find one that serves HIV positive patients because HIV-related infections to the mouth and gums are common and can be severe. Some dental procedures can be invasive and could be risky to both dentist and patient; it is highly recommended that you disclose your status to the dentist so that he or she is aware of your status.

As a Patient You have Responsibilities

To be honest with your provider about:
- Supplemental treatments you may be using because that may impact the prescribed medications from your provider.
- Risks you may be engaging in, including sexual or other practices that could affect your health, including alcohol and recreational drug use.
To take prescriptions as directed by your doctor and to tell him or her if you are experiencing difficulties or any side effects or if you choose to discontinue taking the medications.
To treat your provider with respect.
To find a provider who will work with you and that you are comfortable with, even if that means switching providers more than once.
To ask questions until you understand.
You also have the responsibility to protect yourself and others, from spreading the disease.

The following health organizations' Patient Rights and Responsibilities are available in PDF format:

ANMC

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Patient Rights and Responsibilities
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