Patient Rights – The Hospital is Not a Place of Punishment

The hospital stay is not only about recovery but also about patient rights, which are increasingly coming to the forefront. Awareness of patient rights is continually growing, and many actively exercise these rights. Understanding these rights not only serves to protect patients but also contributes to the transparency of hospitals and healthcare institutions.

Patient Rights and the Importance of Communication

Patient rights include the opportunity for communication, which is particularly important for minor children. Parents have the right to be with their child during hospital treatment. In practice, the mother is usually present by the child’s side, but the father also has the right to participate. It is important to note, however, that the hospital is not obligated to provide a bed or meals for the parent, only a seat next to the crib. If the parent is sent out of the hospital overnight, this is a violation of rights and should be subjected to further investigation.

Rights of Adult Patients

For adult patients, it is especially emphasized that a person of their choice can be present at all times with terminally ill patients. If the patient is unable to make decisions, their immediate relative is entitled to decide on their behalf. If the patient has previously expressed preferences regarding visitors, these must be respected. Hospital visiting hours are merely recommendations that aid patient care, and visitors should not remain in the patient room for extended periods to avoid infringing on the rights of other patients.

Patient Rights and the Role of Patient Advocates

To protect patient rights, patient advocates are available to assist patients in understanding and asserting their rights. The healthcare law clearly defines the responsibilities of patient advocates, who work within healthcare institutions. The goal of advocates is to support patients in awareness of their rights and to provide assistance with any legal issues.

The right to self-determination is a particularly important area that emphasizes patients’ decision-making abilities. For example, autopsy is a sensitive issue where the patient’s right to self-determination is applicable. Anyone can potentially be an organ donor unless they have stated otherwise during their lifetime. Exceptions apply to child donors, where parental consent is necessary. An autopsy becomes necessary when the cause of death is unclear, and both the attending physician and the pathologist must agree on the decision.

Patients also have the right to refuse treatment. Anyone who does not wish to undergo life-sustaining treatment or surgery has the right to do so, but it is important to know that doctors are sworn to protect life. Exceptions are made for diseases that lead to rapid death, so in cases of treatment refusal, doctors will consider the patient’s wishes.

Enforcement of Patient Rights and Responsibilities

In addition to patient rights, patients also have responsibilities during treatment and examination. Patients must be aware that they need to have the necessary information to make decisions, and the attending physician must ensure that the patient is fully aware of their situation. Patient rights can not only be enforced but patients must also cooperate with healthcare staff during the treatment process.

Patients have the right to designate a substitute decision-maker who is entitled to exercise consent and refusal rights on their behalf. This process has formal requirements, and the designation of a substitute decision-maker can occur in various ways. If there is no designated person, then the immediate relative is entitled to make decisions.

Patients have the right to access their medical records, which they can review, but they must pay for copies. Medical confidentiality is also a fundamental right that must be respected, and only those who are absolutely necessary may participate in examinations. Patients also have the right to leave the institution voluntarily, but in certain cases, such as infectious diseases, their freedom of movement may be restricted.

Quality of Medical Care and Patient Rights

Patients have the right to healthcare, which includes access to appropriate medical treatment. Patients have the right to receive information about their illness and treatment. Physicians must clearly explain the proposed treatment methods, their possible side effects, as well as the expected benefits and risks. The information provided to patients must be tailored to their individual needs, taking into account age, level of understanding, and mental state.

Respect for human dignity is also a fundamental right, requiring that physicians communicate with patients politely and respectfully. During medical care, patients are not only legally protected but their human dignity must also be preserved. Patients have the right to have their complaints regarding their health investigated, and if they face long waiting times, the institution’s management is obliged to respond to patients’ written inquiries.

The quality of medical care and respect for patient rights are essential for patients to trust healthcare services and receive the necessary support during recovery. Healthcare institutions must continuously work to uphold patient rights and ensure appropriate care for everyone.