Patient Rights Made Simple

Developed in 1973 and then revised by the American Hospital Association in 1992, the Patient Bill of Rights specifies the rights each and every patient possesses. These rights were formulated over time using state and federal laws, medical ethics, and generally accepted practices. This course explains the different types of patient rights, their importance, and how a healthcare provider’s commitment to protecting these rights contributes to the organization’s success.

Organizations committed to putting the patient first are more competitive, have a better reputation, and are generally looked upon more favorably when compared to organizations that ignore those rights. Additionally, organizations neglecting patient rights tend to face more malpractice lawsuits and government fines. So, what are some of these rights? This course explores each area covered in the Patient Bill of Rights including but not limited to the right to be listened to, to be safe when seeking care, to have a personal representative when necessary, and to expect privacy regarding their records.

While every health organization should abide by the rule that the patient comes first, some do not. It is therefore important for you as a healthcare worker or as a patient to know what rights you have, and to be able to recognize when those rights are being violated. Utilize the materials provided here and gain a fuller understanding of the rights you must protect as a healthcare worker.

   This course is in the Video On Demand format, to read about Video On Demand features click here.

Anyone working in healthcare

• Introduction
• Why Are Patient Rights So Important?
• Courtesy, Compassion, Dignity And Respect
• Personal Representatives
• The Right To Self Determination
• Advanced Directives
• Unintended Outcomes And Mistakes
• Pain Management
• Medical Records And The Right To Privacy
• Safety
• Right To Emergency Care
• Costs And Complaints
• Patient Responsibilities
• In Conclusion

• Access to Medical Records
• HIPAA Privacy Compliance: It's The Law
• HIPAA: Mobile Device Privacy and Security