Your Rights in the Hospital: What Federal Law Says You Deserve
Being in the hospital can be confusing and stressful. Whether you’re there for a check-up, treatment, or surgery, it's important to know that you have rights.
These rights are protected by federal law and ensure that you're treated with respect, safety, and dignity.
Here's what you need to know:
1. You Have the Right to Know Your Rights
The hospital must tell you about your rights before giving or stopping care whenever possible.
You should also know who to talk to if you have a problem or complaint.
2. You Can Make Decisions About Your Care
You have the right to help plan your treatment.
You can say yes or no to treatment.
You can make an "advance directive," which is a plan for your care if you can’t speak for yourself.
You can choose someone to speak for you.
3. You Have the Right to Privacy and Safety
Your personal space and information should be respected.
You have the right to be treated in a safe place.
You should be free from abuse or harassment of any kind.
4. You Can See and Get Copies of Your Medical Records
You can ask for your health records and get them in a way that works for you (like a printed copy or electronic file).
The hospital has to give them to you within a reasonable time.
5. You Shouldn’t Be Restrained or Put in Seclusion Unless It’s Absolutely Necessary
Hospitals can only use physical restraints or isolate you if it's the only way to keep you or others safe.
They must use the least harmful option and stop as soon as it's safe.
A doctor or trained nurse must check on you and make sure it’s done properly.
6. Hospital Staff Must Be Trained
Anyone who restrains or isolates a patient must be trained to do it safely and respectfully.
Staff must know how to recognize signs of physical or emotional distress.
7. Deaths Involving Restraint or Seclusion Must Be Reported
If a patient dies while in restraint or shortly after, the hospital must report it to authorities (CMS).
These rules exist to protect patients and prevent mistreatment.
8. You Have Visitation Rights
You can choose who visits you in the hospital, including friends, partners, or family.
The hospital can't discriminate based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or other personal characteristics.
If Something Feels Wrong, Speak Up.
You can file a complaint or grievance.
The hospital must tell you how to do this and who to contact.
They must respond and let you know how the issue was handled.
Remember: These rights are here to protect you. Knowing them helps you take control of your healthcare and stay safe while getting the treatment you need.
Source: Title 42—Public Health: § 482.13 Condition of participation: Patient's rights.
