While you are a patient at Deborah you can be assured that you are being cared for by healthcare professionals dedicated to providing you the highest quality care possible. Our goal is to meet your healthcare needs in a manner that is efficient, effective and compassionate.

Whether you're here for a week or one hour, you should be aware of your rights as a patient and what you should expect from us in regard to privacy, communication, costs, legal rights and other issues. Because we respect you, we are explaining "patient rights" to you. You are entitled to these rights under state law and regulations.

Medical Care

To receive the care and health services that the hospital is required by law to provide.

To receive an understandable explanation from your physician of your complete medical condition, recommended treatment, expected results, risks involved, and reasonable medical alternatives. If your physician believes that some of this information would be detrimental to understand, the explanation must be given to your next of kin or guardian.

To give informed, written consent prior to the start of specified, non-emergency medical procedures or treatments. Your physician should explain to you, in words you understand, specific details about the recommended procedures or treatment, any risks involved, time required for recovery, and any reasonable medical alternatives.

To refuse medication and treatment after possible consequences of this decision have been explained clearly to you, unless the situation is life-threatening or the procedure is required by law.

To be included in experimental research only if you give informed, written consent. You have the right to refuse to participate.

To expect reasonable continuity of care.

Communication and Information

To be informed of the names and functions of all healthcare professionals providing you with personal care.

To receive, as soon as possible, the services of a translator or interpreter if you need one to help you communicate with the hospital's healthcare personnel.

To be informed of the names and functions of any outside healthcare and educational institutions involved in your treatment. You may refuse to allow their participation.

To receive, upon request, the hospital's written policies and procedures regarding life-saving methods and the use or withdrawal of life-support mechanisms.

To be advised in writing of the hospital's rules regarding the conduct of patients and visitors.

To receive a summary of your patients rights that includes the name and phone number of the hospital staff member to whom you can ask questions or complain about any possible violation of your rights.