THE PATIENTS' RESPONSIBILITES

Provision of Information
A patient has the responsibility to provide, to the best of his/her knowledge, accurate and complete information about present complaints, past illnesses, hospitalizations, medications, and other matters relating to his/her health. He/she has the responsibility for reporting whether he/she clearly comprehends a contemplated course of action, and what is expected of him/her.

Compliance with Instructions
“The collaborative nature of health care requires that patients or their families/ surrogates participate in their care. The effectiveness of care and patient satisfaction with the course of treatment depends, in part, on the patient fulfilling certain responsibilities. Patients are responsible for providing information about past illnesses, hospitalizations, medications, and other matters related to health status. To participate effectively in decision-making, patients must be encouraged to take responsibility for requesting additional information or clarification about their health status or treatment when they do not fully understand information and instructions. Patients are also responsible for ensuring that the healthcare institution has a copy of their written advance directive if they have one. Patients are responsible for informing their physicians and other caregivers if they anticipate problems in following prescribed treatment.” Patient’s Bill of Rights, Item 12, paragraph 2. 1992, by the American Hospital Association.

Refusal of Treatment
The patient is responsible for his/ her actions, and the results of such actions, if he/ she refuses treatment or does not follow instructions of physicians and health care professionals.

Hospital Charges (Financial)
A patient is responsible for providing accurate information concerning ability to pay for services and fulfillment of financial obligations as promptly as possible.

Hospital Rules and Regulations
Lourdes asks patients, their family members and other visitors to observe hospital rules and regulations affecting patient care and conduct.

Respect and Consideration
The patient is requested to be considerate of the rights of other patients and hospital personnel and for assisting in the control of noise, smoking, number of visitors, and general conduct. The patient is asked to be respectful of the property of other persons and of the hospital.

Personal Items
The patient is responsible for all personal items brought to the hospital. If valuables are brought to the hospital, arrangements can be made with the Security Department for safekeeping.

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