Patient Bill of Rights
All health care facilities and physicians will be required to comply with the federal privacy rules concerning how your health information is shared, stored, and utilized. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) outlines privacy standards that protect your medical record and other health information, and identify your rights and responsibilities. All of your information, including your medical record and computer file, are kept strictly confidential and are not released or disclosed to anyone outside Dunn Memorial Hospital without your permission. Dunn Memorial Hospital considers protecting your privacy an important part of providing you with high-quality care. If you have any questions regarding these privacy policies, please contact our Risk Manager at 812-276-1302.
Below is a brief excerpt of your rights as a patient.
As a patient at Dunn Memorial Hospital you have the right to:
- be informed of your rights before receiving or discontinuing your care
- be informed of the process for prompt resolution of your complaints or grievances
- if the hospital is unable to resolve the conflict to the Complainant's satisfaction, the Complainant will be encouraged to contact the Joint Commission (JCAHO). For JCAHO contact information please call Quality and Accreditation at 812.276.1302.
- participate in the development and implementation of your plan of care
- know the identity of the physician who is primarily responsible for your care
- know the nature and extent of your medical problem
- know the planned course of treatment
- know your prognosis (expected outcome)
- receive instruction in self-care
- know alternatives for care or medical treatment
- information necessary to give informed consent prior to the start of any procedure
- know the probable length of your hospital stay
- know the long-term financial implications of your treatment choices
- participate in ethical issues
- accept or refuse any procedure, drug, or treatment and to be informed of the possible consequences
- to formulate advance directives and the right to designate a decision-maker if you are not able
- expect supportive care including appropriate management of pain, treatment of uncomfortable symptoms and support of psychological and spiritual concerns and needs
- have a family member or representative of your choice and your physician notified
- promptly of your admission to the hospital
- personal privacy
- receive care in a safe setting
- be free from all forms of abuse or harassment
- the confidentiality of your medical records
- access information contained in your closed medical record
- decide to participate in clinical trials, research, or investigative treatment
- be free from seclusion and restraints of any form that are not medically necessary or are used as a means of coercion, discipline, convenience, or retaliation by staff
- receive full explanation of restrictions of visitors, calls, or mail
- considerate, respectful care from all employees
- have your personal, cultural and spiritual values, and beliefs considered when treatment decisions are made
- expect a reasonable response to your request for services within the capacity of the Dunn Memorial
- receive evaluation, services or referral
- receive information concerning the relationship of the hospital to other health care and educational institutions
- be provided with a list of clergy members available for spiritual counseling or assistance
- expect support and assistance in accessing protective services and community resources
- expect an explanation of your bill regardless of the source of payment and to receive information or be advised of the availability of sources of financial assistance
Patient Rights (Minors)
All rights and privileges provided under the Dunn's Patient Rights and Responsibilities Policy will be extended to neonates, pediatrics, and adolescents through their parents and/or legal guardians.
The following rights are also applicable:
- Continue your education if a lengthy hospital stay is expected
- Expect time for play and recreational activities
- Be allowed to visit on a limited basis with your peers
Self Determination Act
The policy of Dunn Memorial Hospital regarding the Patient Self Determination Act is as follows:
- We acknowledge your right to make your own decision concerning your health care and medical treatment. To assist you in understanding State and Federal directives, you will receive the Indiana State Board of Health publication, “Your Right to Decide.”
- The Hospital will respect and honor your rights to the extent allowed by Indiana law. Dunn Memorial Hospital will not discriminate against you in any way on whether or not you have executed an advance directive. There is additional information available to you that can be obtained in the Hospital.
This information includes:
- Dunn Memorial Hospital’s Operating Policy and Procedure on Advance Directives.
- Information on Living Wills.
- Information on Durable Power of Attorney.
- Information on the Appointment of a Health Care Representative.
- Information on Life Prolonging Procedure Declaration.