Patient Rights

All of our patients and clients have the right to privacy and confidentiality. As a consumer, you have the responsibility to be honest and direct in a courteous fashion about everything that relates to your needs for health services. (Exceptions are determined by California and Federal Law, which directs us to report if you or someone else is in imminent danger or if a minor or impaired person is being abused.)

Dignity

You have a right to have your dignity as an individual recognized and respected, regardless of your race, age, sex or lifestyle. You should expect that all clinicians will introduce themselves and will address you according to your preference.

Privacy

You have a right to privacy. You should expect that your discussion, examination, and treatment will be conducted in privacy. You should expect that the presence of any individual will be explained to you and that they will be introduced by name.

Confidentiality

You have a right to confidentiality of all communications and records relating to you. Your permission must be obtained before we may give information to anyone not directly connected with your care. This applies to your parents and college officials. Exceptions required by law include reporting certain communicable diseases, threats of suicide or homicide, or suspected child abuse.

Ownership

The medical record is the property of health services. As outlined by the laws of California, you have the right to review your medical record and to have a copy if you so desire.

Understanding

You will be expected to be an active participant in decisions regarding your health.

You have a right to know and understand:

• Our assessment of your problem
• What tests are being done and why
• The risks of any tests or treatment
• Alternatives, if any, and their risks
• The prospects for resolution of your problem
• The charges, if any, for your care

Service

You have a right to expect pleasant and courteous service.

Patient Responsibilities

As a consumer of student health services you have responsibilities as well as rights. They include the following:

• Prescriptive medications, injections and laboratory tests will have a financial charge. These may be added to your school bill, or you may pay cash/check at the time of visit. The cost is kept as low as possible. It is your responsibility to discuss any financial burden that this might affect.
• Being a good health consumer does not mean being a silent partner. If you feel that your rights have not been respected ask to see the nurse practitioner or the director of the Wellness Center.
• Your health is a shared responsibility.
• Be honest and direct in a courteous fashion about everything that relates to your needs for health services.
• Be sure you understand your health situation. If you do not understand the treatment plan or the test, ask the practitioner about it.
• Follow the prescribed plan. It is your responsibility to advise us if you cannot follow the plan.
• The staff of the Wellness Center and Health Services is pleased to work with you to keep you in good health.