Your Rights

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.

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

Citizens Advice Bureau

If you have any further queries you can call us on 0800 663 463 or email info@arthritis.org.nz

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