Patient Rights & Responsibilities

PATIENT BILL OF RIGHTS

It is the policy of GAC and CCDH to recognize and respect the rights and responsibilities of all patients. The following policy will be observed by our entire staff.

THE PATIENT HAS THE RIGHT

To considerate and respectful care.
To a safe and pleasant environment.
To be free from all forms of abuse and harassment.
To privacy concerning their medical care. Case discussion, consultation, examination and treatment are considered confidential and will be conducted discreetly. Those not directly involved with the patient’s medical care must have their permission to be present.
To receive complete current information concerning their diagnosis, treatment and prognosis from their physician in terms they can reasonably be expected to understand. When the patient’s physician considers that it is not medically advisable to give such information to the patient, the information will be given to an appropriate person on the patient’s behalf.
To know the name of their physician responsible for delivering their care.
To receive from their physician all information needed in order to give informed consent, as required by the laws of Ohio, prior to the start of any procedure and/or treatment. Except in emergencies, such information should include – but not be limited to – the specific procedure and/or treatment and risks considered medically significant by the physician.
To receive and/or request information regarding medical alternatives for care or treatment when they exist.
To obtain a second opinion regarding the recommended procedure. Responsibility for the expense of the second opinion rests solely with the patient.
To refuse treatment to the extent permitted by law and to be informed of the medical consequences of their actions.
To an interpreter. Interpreters should be requested at least 48 hours in advance of procedure.
To be informed of the rules that apply to their conduct as a patient.
To expect that all communications and records pertaining to their care will be treated as confidential. Patient records and/or portions of records will not be released to outside entities or individuals (except when required by law) without the patient's or designated representative's written approval.
To participate in decisions regarding their treatment, unless such participation is contraindicated for medical reasons.
To refuse participation in experimental treatment and procedures. Should any experimental treatment or procedures be considered, they should be fully explained to the patient prior to commencement.
To information regarding emergency and after-hours care. Patients will be provided with written discharge instructions, including after-hours contact information. These instructions will be discussed with the patient before a procedure and with both the patient and family member(s) after a procedure.
To receive treatment without discrimination as to race, color, gender, ethnicity, national origin, religious affiliation or sexual orientation.
To change their provider if other qualified providers are available.
To estimated fee and payment information prior to the procedure.
To information regarding other services provided in the Endoscopy Center, including estimated fee and payment.

THE PATIENT IS RESPONSIBLE

For providing accurate and complete health information concerning their past illnesses, medications, including over-the-counter products and dietary supplements, and any allergies or sensitivities.
For keeping all scheduled pre- and post-procedure appointments and complying with treatment plans.
For respecting healthcare providers, staff, other patients as well as GAC and CCDH’s property.
For arriving at your office or endoscopy appointment in a non-altered state. No patient will be seen under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
For voicing concerns or problems to the facility staff.
For requesting further information about anything they do not understand.
For accepting personal financial responsibility for any charges not covered by their insurance.
For having a responsible adult present to drive him/her from the facility and remain with them the day of the procedure if the patient was sedated.
For complying with instructions not to drive on the day of and endoscopic procedure. CCDH will not knowingly allow patients to drive or take public transportation the day of their endoscopic procedure.
For their own actions if they refuse treatment or do not follow medical advice.
For informing their provider about any advance directive, including a living will and/or medical power of attorney, that may affect their care.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The physicians of Gastroenterology Associates of Cleveland, Incorporated have a financial interest and ownership in the Cleveland Center for Digestive Health and Endoscopy, LLC.
Feedback or grievances for all patient encounters in the CCDH can be submitted through:

The self-addressed survey letter given to the patient prior to discharge
A grievance form available at the reception center
The clinical director by phone, which is included on written discharge instructions
The Ohio Department of Health by phone: 1-800-669-3534 or email at hccomplaints@gq.odh.state.oh.us
The Medicare Beneficiary Ombudsman at www.cms.hhs.gov/center/ombudsman.asp