Patient Rights

For the best care, patients and healthcare providers need to work together. Patient rights are important for:

• Making patients feel more secure and confident in healthcare settings.
• Emphasizing the importance of a good relationship between patients and their caregivers.
• Highlighting the patient’s role in staying healthy.

Here are some key patient rights:

1. Patients have the right to clear and correct information about their health plan, except in emergencies.
2. Patients have the right to know who the medical professionals are who are taking care of them.
3. Patients have the right to be involved in making decisions about their health.
4. Patients have the right to refuse any treatment or care plan. They should also be told what might happen if they refuse.
5. If a patient can’t make decisions for themselves, their parents, guardians, or family members have the right to represent them.
6. Patients have the right to be treated with respect and without discrimination by all healthcare staff, at all times.
7. Patients have the right to privacy during discussions and consultations about their case. Examinations and treatments should protect their privacy.
8. All conversations and medical records about a patient’s care must be kept private by the hospital or healthcare team.
9. Patients have the right to see their medical records and have them explained if needed, unless the law restricts access.
10. Patients have the right to choose healthcare providers who can give them good quality care.
11. Patients have the right to complain about their care or ask for better care, both within the hospital and through outside organizations.
12. Patients have the right to know the hospital’s rules about their care.

Scenarios

1. Right to Clear and Correct Information

Scenario: Robert, a middle-aged man recently diagnosed with high blood pressure, attends a consultation. His doctor, Dr. Ssebunya, explains the condition in clear and simple terms. He is provided with brochures on managing his condition and is invited to ask any questions to ensure he understands the treatment plan.

2. Right to Know Their Care Team

Scenario: Nakato, a young woman who just had surgery, is recovering in her hospital room. She is introduced to her care team, including Nurse Kalema, who will be monitoring her vitals, and Dr. Muwanga, the surgeon who performed the operation. Each member of the team explains their role in her recovery, making her feel more confident and cared for.

3. Right to Be Involved in Decisions

Scenario: Alex, a 35-year-old man with a chronic heart condition, sits down with his cardiologist, Dr. Lubega, to discuss treatment options. After explaining the pros and cons of surgery versus medication, Dr. Lubega asks for Alex’s input, ensuring he understands the risks involved. Together, they make a plan that aligns with Alex’s preferences and lifestyle.

4. Right to Refuse Treatment

Scenario: Namaata, a woman in her 50s, has been advised to start chemotherapy for her recent cancer diagnosis. However, after thoughtful consideration, she decides to refuse the treatment, fearing the side effects. Dr. Wasswa respects her decision and explains the potential consequences, offering alternative treatment options and discussing palliative care for symptom management.

5. Representation for Incapacitated Patients

Scenario: Museveni, a young boy involved in a serious accident, is unconscious in the emergency room. His father, Mr. Kyeyune, arrives and is briefed by Dr. Byaruhanga. Since Museveni cannot communicate, his father is involved in the decision-making process, consenting to surgery on his behalf and ensuring the medical team follows the boy’s previously expressed wishes.

6. Right to Respect and Non-Discrimination

Scenario: Kato, a transgender man, goes for a routine check-up. The clinic staff, including Nurse Nalwanga, treat him with the utmost respect, using his preferred name and pronouns throughout the visit. Kato feels comfortable, knowing his identity is accepted without judgment, and that he will receive high-quality care like any other patient.

7. Right to Privacy During Consultations

Scenario: Namatovu, a teenager, is visiting a gynecologist for the first time. Before her examination, the doctor, Dr. Lubega, ensures the room is private, closing the door and ensuring only the necessary staff are present. Namatovu is assured that the examination will be conducted respectfully and her privacy will be maintained at all times.

8. Confidentiality of Medical Records

Scenario: Alex’s HIV status is sensitive, and Nurse Kamya ensures that his medical records are kept confidential. When Alex’s family asks for details about his diagnosis, Nurse Kamya gently explains that they can only discuss the information with Alex’s consent, maintaining the patient’s privacy at all costs.

9. Access to Medical Records

Scenario: After undergoing a series of tests, Robert requests to see his medical records. Nurse Muwanga retrieves the documents and goes through the results with him. He explains any medical terms Robert doesn’t understand, ensuring that he fully grasps his health status and any ongoing treatment options.

10. Right to Choose Healthcare Providers

Scenario: Nakato is seeking a new specialist for her condition. After researching her options, she chooses Dr. Muwanga, known for his expertise in treating women with similar health issues. She feels confident in her decision, knowing she has selected a provider who aligns with her healthcare needs.

11. Right to Complain or Seek Redress

Scenario: After an unsatisfactory experience with long wait times at the clinic, Namaata decides to submit a formal complaint. The clinic manager, Mr. Kyeyune, promptly follows up with her, offering an apology and explaining the steps being taken to improve patient flow. Namaata appreciates the responsiveness and is reassured that her concerns matter.

12. Right to Know Hospital Policies

Scenario: When Kato is admitted to the hospital for surgery, the staff provides him with a brochure outlining the hospital’s policies on visiting hours, discharge procedures, and patient rights. He feels empowered to make informed decisions about his care and understands what to expect during his hospital stay.