1.11. Patients’ Bill of rights (civics)
Learning Objectives
At the end of the lesson, students will:
- Define and use key healthcare-related terms.
- Identify and explain key aspects of the Patient’s Bill of Rights, including respectful treatment, confidentiality, informed consent, and the right to a second opinion.
- Explain the importance of patient rights and responsibilities by discussing real-life or hypothetical healthcare scenarios.
- Reflect on how knowledge of patient rights and responsibilities can empower individuals and their families in healthcare settings.
Part 1: Vocabulary
In groups, discuss the meaning of the following words.
rights responsibilities confidentiality
HIPAA informed consent second opinion
refusal treatment accurate information
Part 2: The Patient’s bill of Rights
Read the introduction part of ‘The Patient’s bill of Rights’ , and answer the following questions.
- Why is it important for CMAs to understand the patient’s bill of rights?
- What is the meaning of dignity?
Introduction
The Patient’s Bill of Rights is a fundamental document that outlines the rights and privileges of patients within the healthcare system. Understanding these rights is crucial for nursing professionals, as it ensures that patient care is delivered with respect, dignity, and accountability. This article will explore the key components of the Patient’s Bill of Rights and its significance in nursing practice.
Part 3: Key Components of the Patient’s Bill of Rights
Read the key components of the bill, and highlight if you or anyone you know have ever experienced a healthcare visit where these rights were relevant.
The Patient’s Bill of Rights may vary slightly by organization and state, but it generally includes the following core rights:
Right to Informed Consent
Patients have the right to receive information about their diagnosis, treatment options, and the risks involved. This ensures that they can make informed decisions regarding their healthcare.
Right to Privacy and Confidentiality
Patients have the right to have their medical information kept private and confidential. Healthcare providers must adhere to legal regulations, such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), to protect patient privacy.
Right to Access Medical Records
Patients have the right to view and obtain copies of their medical records. This empowers them to understand their health history and make informed decisions about their care.
Right to Receive Respectful Care
Patients have the right to receive care that is respectful and free from discrimination. This includes being treated with dignity and consideration, regardless of their background or personal characteristics.
Right to Participate in Their Care
Patients have the right to be actively involved in their care decisions. This includes the right to refuse treatment and to seek a second opinion when desired.
Right to Safe and Quality Care
Patients are entitled to care that meets established standards and is delivered in a safe environment. This includes the right to be free from abuse and neglect.
Right to Complain Patients have the right to voice concerns and complaints about their care. Healthcare facilities must have processes in place to address and resolve these issues promptly.
Importance of the Patient’s Bill of Rights in Nursing.
- Why is it important for patients to know their rights?
- Share to the class if you have experienced any violations of the rights. It could be in the US or somewhere else.
Part 4: HIPAA
Listen to the video about HIPAA and while you listen, answer the following questions.
- HIPPA stands for ___________________________________.
- Medical organizations should have HIPPA to safeguard __________________ and _________ of Protected Health Information.
- Give three examples of Protected Health Information HIPPA identifiers.
- There are some healthcare institutions that may not need to be HIPPA complaint. True/False
Part 5: Scenario Involving Patient Rights and Responsibilities
Patient Profile
- Name: Maria Gonzalez
- Age: 50
- Gender: Female
- Medical History:
- Hypertension
- Stage 2 breast cancer (diagnosed 2022)
- Current Treatment: Undergoing chemotherapy with plans for surgery.
Scenario Overview
Maria Gonzalez visits her oncologist, Dr. Lisa Chen, for a follow-up appointment regarding her ongoing treatment for breast cancer. During the visit, several issues arise related to patient rights and responsibilities.
Below are the key events in the scenario, and match the following titles to the events.
- Providing Accurate Medical Information
- Informed Consent and Uncertainty About Treatment Plan::
- Request for a Second Opinion
- ________________________________:
- As Maria discusses her treatment plan with Dr. Chen, she expresses concerns about the recommended chemotherapy regimen and its side effects. She mentions that a friend suggested she should seek a second opinion before proceeding with the treatment.
- Dr. Chen acknowledges Maria’s right to seek a second opinion and reassures her that it is a common practice. She provides Maria with referrals to two other oncologists and explains the importance of having all relevant medical records available for review.
- ___________________________:
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- During the appointment, Dr. Chen asks Maria about her medical history and current medication regimen. Maria hesitates to mention that she has been taking herbal supplements, thinking they might not be important.
- Dr. Chen emphasizes the responsibility of patients to provide accurate and complete medical information, explaining how certain supplements could interact with her chemotherapy. Maria acknowledges her oversight and agrees to disclose all medications and supplements in the future.
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- ___________________________:
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- After reviewing the treatment options again, Maria seems uncertain about the chemotherapy side effects and the proposed surgery. She expresses her worries about the potential impact on her quality of life.
- Dr. Chen takes the time to explain the treatment plan in detail, discussing the benefits, risks, and alternatives. She provides educational materials and encourages Maria to ask questions.
- Understanding her right to make informed decisions, Maria requests additional time to consider her options before signing the consent form for chemotherapy. Dr. Chen respects her decision and schedules a follow-up appointment to discuss any further questions Maria may have.
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Now, you are going to read the summary of the scenario and complete the missing words.
In pairs, practice the below dialogues between Maria and Dr. Chen
Dialogue: Maria Gonzalez and Dr. Lisa Chen
Scene: Dr. Chen’s Office
Request for a Second Opinion
Dr. Chen: Good morning, Maria. How have you been feeling since our last appointment?
Maria: Good morning, Dr. Chen. I’ve been feeling a little anxious. I’ve been reading a lot about chemotherapy, and I am not sure of starting the treatment.
Dr. Chen: That’s completely understandable, Maria. Seeking a second opinion is a very common and reasonable step.
Maria: What does ‘second opinion’ mean?
Dr. Chen: A second opinion is when a patient asks another doctor to review their medical condition and treatment options. This helps the patient understand their choices and feel confident about their healthcare decisions.
Maria: Thank you. That is what I could do. I just want to be sure I’m making the right decision.
Dr. Chen: Of course. It’s important that you feel confident in your treatment plan. Let me know if you need help.
Maria: I appreciate that. I’ll think about it and reach out if I need anything.
Providing Accurate Medical Information
Dr. Chen: Before we talk about treatment, I need to check your medications. Are you still taking Lisinopril and Metformin?
Maria: Yes.
Dr. Chen: Any new medicine or supplements?
Maria: Um… I take some herbal supplements, but I didn’t think they mattered.
Dr. Chen: Thank you for telling me. It’s important to know. Some herbs can change how chemotherapy works.
Maria: Oh, I didn’t know that. I thought natural things were safe.
Dr. Chen: Many people think that. But some can cause problems. I can check your supplements and see if they are safe.
Maria: That would help. I’ll tell you everything from now on.
Informed Consent and Uncertainty About Treatment Plan
Maria: I am not sure about chemotherapy and surgery. The side effects worry me.
Dr. Chen: I understand. It’s okay to feel this way. Let’s go over the plan again.
Maria: Yes, that will help. I want to make the right choice.
Dr. Chen: Chemotherapy helps fight cancer, but it has side effects. There are other options too. Here are some materials to read.
Maria: Thank you. I need more time to decide.
Dr. Chen: That’s fine. You can take your time. I’ll see you next week to talk more.
Maria: Thank you, Dr. Chen. That helps a lot.
Dr. Chen: You’re welcome. I’m here to help.
