Patient / Client Bill of Rights & Responsibilities

As a Patient / Client I have the right to:

• Take an active role during my hospital care.
• Receive care as quickly as possible.
• Receive compassionate, professional and respectful care in a safe and clean environment free of discrimination and unnecessary restraints.
• Privacy while in the hospital and confidentiality of my health information and record of care in accordance with the law.
• Be kept informed in order to make decisions about my health care, including being advised if an error affecting my health has occurred.
• Give or refuse consent to any proposed care and to be advised of the possible risks and benefits of the procedure or treatment being proposed. I have the right to designate an individual (substitute decision maker) to give consent for me if I am too ill to do so.
• The appropriate assessment and management of pain.
• Know the name and position of any care provider involved in my care.
• Express my questions, concerns or complaints without fear of reprisal and expect the hospital staff or physician to provide a timely response.
  • While receiving care at the hospital I can speak to my care provider or request to speak to the person in charge of the department.
  • After discharge I can bring my questions, compliments or concerns forward to the Patient Relations Specialist by telephone (905-378-4647 ext 44423), email, or in writing, and upon request can receive a written response to my concerns.

As a Patient / Client I have the responsibility to:

• Provide accurate information relating to my medical and personal history including present and past illnesses, hospitalizations and medications.
• Be actively involved in my plan of care and my discharge and to ask questions when I don’t understand or I require more information.
• Accept the consequences of my actions should I refuse treatment or not follow the treatment plan.
• Be courteous and respectful of other patients, visitors, staff and doctors and for assisting in the control of unnecessary noise and the number of visitors.
• Comply with hospital policies affecting patient care and conduct including supporting the NHS‚ smoke-free and fragrance-free environment.