Patients' Rights

While doctors have a Code of Ethics, patients have a Code of Rights - the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers' Rights.

Some important issues are listed here:

• You have the right to full information and to have things explained in a way you can understand.
• You have the right to be told the expected costs of prescriptions and the expected cost of being referred to a specialist.
• Your right to privacy means that you should be able to speak to your doctor with no one able to hear, and to undress in private if you need an examination.
• You have the right to seek a second opinion if you have questions about any aspect of your treatment. Tell you doctor if you would like a second opinion, and ask for the name of another medical practitioner. You don't have to argue or justify your decision!
• You have the right to complain if you have any concerns about your doctor. Contact the Health and Disability Commissioner's office on freephone number 0800 11 22 33.