Patient rights and responsibilities

Patient rights and responsibilities

Your rights and responsibilities

As a patient, you have the right to: 

  • take part in any decision that affects your health or welfare 
  • be helped, accompanied or represented by the person of your choice 
  • receive care in a welcoming and safe environment 
  • be treated politely and with respect 
  • receive appropriate, ongoing, and personalized services 
  • be told about the risks and consequences of your treatment options 
  • accept or refuse medical treatment      
  • access your medical file 
  • have your personal health information kept confidential 
  • choose a healthcare professional and institution 
  • receive services in English or French 
  • obtain end of life care and Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) 
  • file a complaint 

As a patient, you play an important role in your healthcare. You are responsible for: 

  • getting to your appointment on time 
  • having your questions ready for your doctor 
  • providing information about your medical condition (for example: allergies, medications, state of health, recent changes, etc.) 
  • playing an active role in your care and treatment 
  • being polite and respectful with staff  
  • following hospital rules (for example: handwashing, safety measures, etc.) 
  • canceling appointments as soon as possible if for some reason you can’t be there 
  • knowing the risks of leaving the hospital before you are discharged by your care team 

Patient rights pamphlets

In English and French

 

 

In three Indigenous languages