Patient Rights
The patient or surrogate decision-maker for a patient has the right to:
- Be treated with courtesy and respect, with appreciation of his/her individual dignity and with protection of his/her need for privacy.
- An environment that is safe and secure for self and property.
- Confidentiality of information gathered during treatment.
- Receive prompt and reasonable response to questions and requests.
- Know who is providing and is responsible for his/her care.
- Know what patient support services are available, including whether an interpreter is available if he or she communicates in sign language or does not speak English.
- Know what rules and regulations apply to his/her conduct.
- Be given by the health care provider information concerning diagnosis, planned course of treatment, alternatives, risks and prognosis.
- Refuse treatment, except as otherwise provided by law.
- Be given, upon request, full information and necessary counseling on the availability of known financial resources for his/her care.
- Know, upon request and in advance of treatment, the Advance Directives policy as required by state and federal law.
- Receive, upon request, prior to treatment, a reasonable estimate of charges for medical care.
- Receive a copy of reasonably clear and understandable, itemized bill and, upon request, to have charges explained.
- Receive impartial access to medical treatment or accommodations, regardless of race, national origin, religion, physical handicap, sexual orientation or source of payment.
- Receive treatment and/or after hours care for any emergency medical condition that will deteriorate from failure to provide treatment.
- Know if medical treatment is for purposes of experimental research and to give his/her consent or refusal to participate in such experimental research.
- Express grievances regarding any violation of his/her rights as stated in Mississippi law concerning treatment or care that is furnished (or fails to be furnished) by the health care provider who served him/her, and to the appropriate licensing agency.
- Participate in all aspects of health care decisions, unless contraindicated by concerns for health.
- Receive an appropriate assessment and management of pain.