Patients Have Rights

Consent isn’t just about sex. The Patient Self-Determination Act is a federal law that guarantees adults’ right to accept or reject medical or surgical treatment.

“Sure,” you might be thinking, “that makes sense for treatments, but what about refusing a medically unnecessary pelvic exam or declining being weighed?”

The law may not be quite as clearcut, but quite often, you absolutely can “just say no” or at least start a conversation about why a test or procedure is needed.

The American Medical Association Code of Ethics gives you the right to get a second opinion if you’re not satisfied with the information or treatment options you receive from your provider.

The American Hospital Association Patient’s Bill of Rights also notes that if you refuse a treatment or procedure at a hospital, you’re still entitled to receive other care and services there or to transfer to another hospital.

So ask for that referral, or see if your doctor’s office can reschedule you with a different provider. Don’t feel like you have to figure out everything about your health on your own.

Both the American Medical Association Code of Ethics and the American Hospital Association Patient’s Bill of Rights begin with the right to respectful care.

Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act, meanwhile, prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex characteristics), in covered health programs or activities.

So what do you do when you feel disrespected? Whether you want to file a complaint or just find another medical provider, you have options to get the care you deserve.