All facilities licensed pursuant to these regulations shall
support, protect, and respect clients' rights. Facility staff shall receive
training on client rights and demonstrate understanding and competence in the
policies and procedures regarding client rights. Client rights will be posted
or made available to facility clients in English or their preferred language.
The method by which a client may register a complaint against the facility will
be posted or otherwise made available to clients. The facility shall have and
enforce policies and procedures which guarantee:
A. the right to equal service, regardless of
race, gender, gender identity, religion, ethnic background, sexual orientation,
education, social class, physical or mental handicap, or economic
status;
B. the right to
considerate, courteous and respectful care from all staff;
C. the right to complete information using
terms the average client can reasonably be expected to understand;
D. the right to informed consent, full
discussion of risks and benefits prior to any invasive procedure, except in an
emergency, and advice regarding alternatives to the proposed
procedure(s);
E. the right to
receive a written list of all services available, service costs and advanced
notice of any changes;
F. the right
to receive care that is consistent with current scientific evidence about
benefits and risks;
G. the right
for non-English speaking clients to obtain assistance in
interpretation;
H. the right to
know the names, titles, professions and specific types and licenses held by the
facility staff to whom the client speaks to and from whom services or
information are received;
I. the
right to refuse examinations and procedures to the extent permitted by law and
to be informed of the health and legal consequences of any refusal;
J. the right of access to the client's
personal health records;
K. the
right of respect for the client's privacy;
L. the right of confidentiality of the
client's personal health records as provided by law;
M. the right to expect reasonable continuity
of care within the scope of services and staffing;
N. the right to have the client's civil
rights, cultural background and religious opinions respected;
O. the right to present complaints to the
management of the facility without fear of reprisal; and
P. the right to examine and receive a full
explanation of any charges made by the facility regardless of source of
payment.
