Patient's Rights and Responsibilities-University Health Services - Carnegie Mellon University

Patient's Rights and Responsibilities

You have the right…

  1. To receive considerate and respectful care at the Student Health Service (SHS).
  2. To receive an explanation of your diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis in terms you can understand.
  3. To receive the necessary information to participate in decisions about your care and to give your informed consent before any diagnostic or therapeutic procedure is performed.
  4. To refuse treatment, except as prohibited by law, and to be informed of the consequences of making this decision.
  5. To expect that your personal privacy will be respected by all staff at the SHS
  6. To expect that your medical records will be kept confidential and will be released only with your written consent, or in cases of medical emergencies, or in response to court-ordered subpoenas. (Confidentiality can be violated if the individual poses a significant threat of harm to self or others.)
  7. To know the names and positions of people involved in your care by official name tag and / or personal introduction.
  8. To full explanation of any research or experimental procedure proposed for treatment and the full opportunity to give your consent before any procedure will begin.
  9. To ask and receive an explanation of any charges that may be made by the SHS, even though they may be covered by insurance.
  10. To obtain another medical opinion prior to any procedure.
  11. To change your primary care provider if other qualified providers are available.
  12. To review any medical records created and maintained by the SHS regarding your care and treatment.

You are responsible…

  1. For providing accurate and complete information about your past health history and present complaints.
  2. For asking questions if you do not understand the explanation of your diagnosis, treatment, prognosis or any instructions.
  3. For providing the necessary personal information to complete your file.
  4. For keeping appointments unless you notify the service when you are unable to do so.
  5. For following the recommended treatment plan.
  6. For any charges billed to you.
  7. For following the rules and regulations that are posted within the SHS.