{"id":355838,"date":"2016-04-04T10:46:14","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:46:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ability-fl-prod.internetbrands.com\/ability-law\/healthcare\/patient-rights\/tips-on-how-to-be-a-good-patient.html"},"modified":"2026-08-25T16:11:00","modified_gmt":"2026-08-25T21:11:00","slug":"tips-on-how-to-be-a-good-patient","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/healthcare\/patient-rights\/tips-on-how-to-be-a-good-patient.html","title":{"rendered":"The Rights and Responsibilities of Patients"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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The Rights and Responsibilities of Patients<\/h1>\n\n
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\n By Christie Nicholson, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Jordan Walker, J.D.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n

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Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n

Patients have rights to respectful, non\u2011discriminatory medical care. This includes information about diagnoses and treatment options, privacy, access to medical records, timely care, the ability to question providers and refuse treatment, and continuity of care. They also have responsibilities to treat providers respectfully and be honest about their health history and symptoms. Patients should follow agreed healthcare treatment plans, coordinate care among providers, and comply with privacy requirements.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

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Being a proactive patient means understanding your medical history, keeping detailed records, and advocating for your healthcare needs. Understanding your rights as a patient helps you make informed decisions and stay actively involved in your care.\u00a0<\/p>\n

This overview explains the protections you\u2019re entitled to, the responsibilities you hold, and practical tips for advocating for yourself throughout treatment and care. If you believe a provider or facility has violated those rights, a <\/span>healthcare lawyer near you<\/span><\/a>\u00a0can review what happened, explain your options, and help you pursue a legal remedy.<\/span><\/p>\n

What Is the Patient Bill of Rights?<\/h2>\n

In\u00a02010,\u00a0President Obama enacted the\u00a0Affordable Care Act<\/a>.\u00a0This law protects patients and healthcare providers by outlining their rights and responsibilities regarding medical treatment.<\/p>\n

According to the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Medical Services’ Patient Bill of Rights<\/a>, individuals have the following rights when it comes to patient care:<\/p>\n