Have you been asking yourself, “What are my rights?” regarding health and disability services?
When you use a health or disability service in New Zealand, you are protected by a Code of Rights. The Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights provides the following 10 rights:
Right 1
The right to be treated with respect.
Right 2
The right to freedom from discrimination, coercion, harassment, and exploitation.
Right 3
The right to dignity and independence.
Right 4
The right to services of an appropriate standard.
Right 5
The right to effective communication.
Right 6
The right to be fully informed.
Right 7
The right to make an informed choice and give informed consent.
Right 8
The right to support.
Right 9
Rights in respect of teaching or research.
Right 10
The right to complain.
For more information
Go to the health and disability commissioner’s website for more information. The Code and Your Rights – Health and Disability Commissioner (hdc.org.nz)
For help with making a complaint, go to the nationwide health and disability service advocacy website Advocacy – Health and Disability Advocacy Service
If you have any further queries you can call us on 0800 663 463 or email info@arthritis.org.nz