Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights

Your Healthcare Rights

As a patient at Burnside Hospital, you have the right to:

1. Access to Care: You have the right to access timely healthcare and treatment that meets your needs and respects your preferences and circumstances.
2. Safety: You have the right to receive safe and high-quality medical care with treatments that meet the highest safety standards and best practices.
3. Respect: You have the right to be treated with dignity and respect regardless of your background, identity, or beliefs. We aim to ensure your cultural, religious, and personal preferences are considered in your care.
4. Communication: You have the right to receive clear and understandable information about your healthcare, including your diagnosis, treatment options and potential risks. We encourage open communication and will provide information in a way that is easy for you to understand.
5. Participation in Decisions: You have the right to participate in decisions about your care. We work together with you to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your values, needs, and preferences. Your input is invaluable in enabling us to provide personalised care that is right for you.
6. Privacy and Confidentiality: You have the right to have your personal information and medical history kept private and confidential. We take your privacy seriously and ensure confidentiality is respected and adhered to at all times.
7. Access to Your Medical Records: You have the right to access your medical records and request information about your care. This ensures that you remain informed about your health journey and can make decisions that are best for you.
8. Feedback and Complaints: You have the right to provide feedback or make a complaint if you are unhappy with any aspect of your care. Your concerns will be taken seriously, and we are committed to resolving any issues in a constructive and timely manner.

Your Responsibilities

We ask patients to:

1. Be Involved: Actively participate in decisions about your care by discussing any concerns or preferences with your healthcare team.
2. Be Honest: Provide accurate information about your health and medical history so we can provide the best possible care.
3. Respect Others: Treat healthcare providers and fellow patients with respect and courtesy, contributing to a positive and safe environment for everyone.
4. Follow Instructions: Follow the agreed-upon care plan and treatment guidelines. If you need help or have concerns, please ask for clarification.
5. Provide Feedback: Share your thoughts and feedback with us—whether positive or constructive—so we can continuously improve our services.

We empower you as a valued patient to make informed decisions and encourage you to be an active participant in your care.

Your rights and responsibilities are central to the way we deliver supportive healthcare services, ensuring we provide a safe, respectful, and high-quality experience for every patient.