The Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers' Rights applies to all health services and disability support services in New Zealand.
The Code gives rights to all consumers. It places obligations on people and organisations providing services. Your Rights when receiving a health or disability service:
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1.
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Respect
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You should always be treated with respect. This includes respect for your culture, values and beliefs, as well as your right to personal privacy.
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2.
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Fair Treatment
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No-one should discrimate against you, pressure you into something you do not want or take advantage of you in any way.
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3.
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Dignity and Independence
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Services should support you to live a dignified, independent life.
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4.
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Proper Standards
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You have the right to be treated with care and skill, and to receive services that reflect your needs. All those involved in your care should work together for you.
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5.
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Communication
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You have the right to be listened to, understood and receive information in whatever way you need. When it is necessary and practicable an interpreter should be available.
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6.
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Information
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You have the right to have your condition explained and be told what your choices are. This includes how long you may have to wait, an estimate of any costs and likely benefits and side effects. You can ask any questions to hlep you be fully informed.
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7.
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It's Your Decision
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It's up to you to decide. You can so no or change your mind at any time.
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8.
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Support
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You have the right to have someone with you to give you support in most circumstances.
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9.
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Teaching and Research
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All these rights also apply when taking part in teaching and research.
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10.
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Complaints
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It is OK to complain - your complaints help improve services. It must be easy for you to make a complaint, and it should not have an adverse effect on the way you are treated.
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This is an outline of the rights guaranteed by the law known as the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers' Law. They apply to all health and disability services, whether you pay for them or not.
If you need help, ask us. The Health and Disability Commissioner can be reached on Auckland (09) 373 1060, Wellington (04) 494 7900. All other areas 0800 11 22 33. Your local advocacy services can be contacted on 0800 555 050.
The Lakes DHB statement of rights and responsibilities are available by clicking here.
Feedback
We welcome feedback on any of the services we provide, be that compliments or complaints. You may do this verbally or in writing directly to the manager of the service or through our complaints officer.
"Tell Us What You Think About Our Services" brochures are also available in all areas of Lakes District Health Board. We welcome and appreciate your feedback.
Further Information
Should you require further information regarding your care please do not hesitate to speak with the staff directly caring for you or contact the Complaints Officer at Lakes District Health Board.
The Complaints Officer
Lakes District Health Board
Private Bag 3023
Rotorua
Phone: (07) 343 7735
Fax: (07) 349 7897
Email: feedback@lakesdhb.govt.nz
Click here to view the Lakes DHB Rights and Responsibilities Brochure.
Patient Advocacy Services
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Agency
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Contact Telephone Number
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Website
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Health Consumer Service
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Toll free: 0800 801 482
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N/A
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Nationwide Health & Disability Advocacy Service
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Toll free: 0800 555 050
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