Blog

• Dr.Tugume Elias
• 0 Comments
• 20 April, 2025

Patient Rights

Patient Rights and Responsibilities

As guided by the Uganda Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization

Patient Rights

All patients receiving care in any health facility have the following rights:

1. Right to Access Healthcare
   Every individual has the right to timely, appropriate, and quality health care without discrimination based on gender, race, religion, age, economic or social status.
2. Right to Dignity and Respect
   Patients must be treated with respect, courtesy, and dignity at all times, preserving their privacy and cultural values.
3. Right to Information
   Patients have the right to full and clear information about their diagnosis, treatment options, possible risks, and outcomes in a language they understand.
4. Right to Informed Consent
   No treatment or procedure shall be carried out without the patient’s voluntary and informed consent, except in emergencies as permitted by law.
5. Right to Confidentiality
   All medical and personal information must be kept confidential and only shared with authorized persons or with the patient’s consent.
6. Right to Refuse Treatment
   A patient has the right to decline treatment, except in situations where their decision may endanger public health or contravene national laws.
7. Right to Second Opinion
   Patients may seek a second opinion on their diagnosis or treatment without fear of victimization or prejudice.
8. Right to Safety
   Patients are entitled to receive care in a clean, safe, and secure environment, free from harm, abuse, or negligence.
9. Right to Participate in Care
   Patients have the right to participate actively in decisions concerning their care, treatment, and discharge planning.
10. Right to Redress
    Patients may report grievances or dissatisfaction with care received and have the right to a fair, timely investigation and response.

Patient Responsibilities

In return, all patients are expected to uphold the following responsibilities:

1. Provide Accurate Information
   Patients must provide full and accurate information about their health, medical history, and any other relevant matters.
2. Follow Medical Advice
   Patients should follow the treatment plan as prescribed and adhere to medical instructions to achieve recovery and maintain health.
3. Respect Health Workers and Other Patients
   Patients are expected to treat healthcare providers and fellow patients with respect and consideration.
4. Utilize Health Resources Wisely
   Patients must make responsible use of healthcare services and avoid unnecessary demands on the system.
5. Observe Facility Rules and Regulations
   Patients should comply with the rules of the health facility, including visiting hours, hygiene standards, and safety procedures.
6. Report Changes in Condition
   Patients should promptly inform healthcare providers about any changes in their condition or unexpected reactions to treatment.
7. Meet Financial Obligations
   Where applicable, patients should ensure timely payment of service fees or seek guidance on available subsidies or exemptions.
8. Guard Against Harm to Others
   Patients must refrain from behaviors that endanger the health and well-being of others, including violence, abuse, or spreading communicable diseases.