Patients Rights

If people concentrated on their responsibilities, others would have their rights.

You have the right to

Privacy and confidentiality

Know the name and role of every health worker caring for you

Safe, competent, respectful and compassionate care

Emergency care when you need it

Respect for your cultural and religious beliefs

Protection from abuse, exploitation, discrimination and assault

Clear, accurate information about your condition and treatment plan, including expected results and possible risks, in a language you understand

Take part in every decision about your care, and give or withhold your consent

Refuse treatment or leave against medical advice, after being told the consequences

Choose your doctor where possible, and ask for a second opinion

Have a family member, support person or advocate with you, and decline to have particular people involved in your care

Choose not to be told about your condition, unless it is an infectious disease that puts others at risk

See your medical records and know how the information in them is used

Know the cost of your care before you receive it

Safe care for your newborn, with bonding between mother and baby encouraged

Raise a concern or complaint without it affecting your care

You are responsible for

Giving full, accurate information about your health

Asking when any part of your care is unclear

Following the treatment plan you agreed to, and understanding the consequences if you leave against medical advice

Keeping your appointments, or telling us early if you cannot

Treating patients, visitors and staff with respect

Following the center's rules

Staying with vulnerable family members who are admitted, such as children and elderly relatives

Not visiting patients while you have an infectious illness

Not photographing or filming other people on the premises

Handling equipment and property with care

Handing used needles to a nurse or placing them in the sharps container

Reporting any safety risk you notice

Bringing only what you need. Leave valuables at home: the center is not responsible for their loss or damage

These rights follow the Uganda Patients' Charter issued by the Ministry of Health.