Patient's Bill of Rights & Responsibilities

Patient's Rights

To reinforce the legitimate rights and expectations of every patient, the School of Optometry has adopted a "Patient's Bill of Rights". Adherence to these concepts will help ensure that we maintain ethical, high quality standards of care for all of our patients.

  1. Every patient, regardless of race, creed, religion, national origin, age, ability, sex or sexual orientation has the right to expect and receive high quality care delivered in a considerate and respectful manner.
  2. Every patient has the right to obtain complete information concerning their current diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis, in terms the patient can be reasonably expected to understand. They have the right to know by name, the doctor and intern who are responsible for co-ordinating their care.
  3. Every patient has the right to receive all information necessary to give informed consent before referral for additional care or before a program of therapy is implemented. Except in emergencies, such information should include, but not necessarily be limited to, the specific procedure and/or treatment, the health related risks involved, and the probable duration of treatment. When significant alternatives for care or treatment exist, or when the patient requests information concerning alternatives, the patient has the right to such information.
  4. Every patient has the right to refuse treatment, and to be duly informed of the consequences of their action.
  5. Every patient has the right to privacy concerning their own health care program. Case discussions, consultations, examinations, and treatments are confidential matters and must be conducted discreetly. Those not directly involved in a patient's care must have the patient's permission to be present.
  6. Every patient has the right to expect that all communications and records pertaining to their care will be treated as confidential.
  7. Every patient has the right to expect that the clinic be reasonably responsive to all requests for services. The clinic will provide evaluation, and/or referral as indicated by the urgency of the case. When referral to another facility or provider of health services is necessary, patients will receive complete information and explanation concerning the needs for such a referral. The provider or institution to which the patient is to be referred will receive full information regarding the need for additional consultation and treatment upon the consent of the patient.
  8. Every patient has the right to be advised when the clinic proposes to engage in or perform human experimentation affecting their care or treatment. The patient has the right to refuse to participate in such research projects and to receive more traditional care.
  9. Every patient has the right to expect reasonable continuity of care. They have the right to know in advance what appointment times and services are available and where. The patient has the right to expect that the clinic will provide a mechanism whereby they are informed of any continuing health care requirements following treatment.
  10. Every patient has the right to be informed of all relevant professional fees before any provision of services. They have the right to examine and receive an explanation of their bill regardless of source of payment.
  11. The patient has the right to know that clinical review procedures exist and has the right to be advised of how they may be initiated.

The Optometry Clinic has many professional responsibilities including the prevention and treatment of disorders, and the education of health professionals. These undertakings must always be carried out with an overriding concern for the patient's welfare, and recognition of their dignity as a human being. Whereas no simple affirmation can guarantee patient rights, faithful adherence to this basic precept represents the best assurance that patient rights will be protected.

Patient Responsibilities

While patients are afforded certain rights, they also have responsibilities. Accordingly, the Optometry Clinic has adopted the following code of conduct entitled: "Patient Responsibilities". Adherence to these principles will help ensure the safety of and respect for all patients/family, visitors and Clinic personnel. By taking an active role in your eye care, you can help us meet your needs as a patient. We ask that you (and your family) accept certain responsibilities so we can meet our shared goals. We ask that you:

Respect

  • Treat Clinic personnel and other patients/visitors of the Optometry Clinic with respect and dignity.
  • Arrive at appointments promptly or, if they must be canceled or rescheduled, we ask that you notify us as soon as possible (at least 24 hours in advance).

Safety

  • Contribute to a safe and secure environment for Clinic personnel and other patients/visitors by refraining from inappropriate behaviour.

  • Understand that we will not tolerate violent, abusive (verbal or physical) or aggressive behaviour and that such behaviour may result in dismiss al from care and possible notification of law enforcement.

Engagement & Participation

  • Tell us about your eye health history and concerns, ask questions to seek clarification, use the advice and information from your eye care provider, and participate in decision-making related to your eye care.

  • Work with the clinicians to build a relationship that is based on trust, honesty, respect and a mutual desire to improve your eye care outcomes.

QUALITY

  • Tell us about concerns you have about the safety and/or quality of your care.
  • Share your ideas, experience, insight, and concerns to contribute to ongoing improvements to the Optometry Clinic.

SERVICES RECEIVED

  • Make timely payment for services and products.