Patient Bill of Rights

Methodist Hospital respects the basic rights of patients to personal dignity and independent decision-making regarding their care. Methodist Hospital is providing explanation of patient rights and responsibilities to assist in maintaining good relationships with our patients.

Your Rights as a Patient

As a patient at Methodist Hospital, you have the right to:

  • Access services regardless of race, creed, sex, age, national origin, religion, disability or source of payment for care.
  • Receive respectful care with recognition of personal dignity andcultural and spiritual beliefs.
  • Have a family member or representative of your choice notified of your admission to the Hospital.
  • Receive care in a safe setting, free from all forms of abuse and harassment.
  • Personal privacy and confidentiality of health care information.
  • Be informed of your health status, prognosis treatment options and participate in treatment planning.
  • Make informed decisions regarding the testing and treatment you wish to receive.
  • The right to have health care providers comply with your advance directives, including Living Wills and Durable Power of Attorney, or transfer care to someone who can. If you desire more information about advance directives, ask to speak with a hospital social worker.
  • Receive notices of non-coverage of inpatient care information under Medicare and commercial insurance programs.
  • Individualized management of your pain.
  • Freedom from restraints that are not necessary for medical/surgical care or behavioral management.
  • Have any concerns regarding the care and services you are receiving addressed. Please share your concerns, complaints or grievances with your caregiver or the department supervisor. If your concerns cannot be resolved, ask to speak with hospital administration or call (402) 354-4441.

Your Responsibilities as a Patient Include:

  • Provide accurate and complete information about your medical condition and history to the best of your ability.
  • Comply with hospital rules and participate in the agreed-upon treatment plan.
  • Treat other patients and health care providers with respect and consideration.
  • Promptly pay hospital bills. If you cannot make prompt payments, contact the Patient Accounts Office at the number provided on your bill.
  • Honestly share your feelings with your doctor.
  • Bring a list of your concerns to optimize the time you spend with your doctor.
  • Respect doctors, their concerns, and the pressures in their lives. Inform doctors about complementary medicines and alternative treatment.
  • Be honest with your doctor.
  • Help you doctor to be your advocate.
  • Accept your important role in this partnership. Follow your doctor's recommendations and tell the doctor when you cannot.
  • Read health information and be an informed consumer of medical care. If you have a question, ask your doctor for additional information and literature on the subject.
  • Know your medications, the dose, reasons for taking them, and potential side effects.
  • Report symptoms as accurately as possible.
  • Give feedback about all aspects of the doctor's care and also about the doctor's staff.
  • Arrive to appointments on time and informed, with a list of particulars that you need addressed.
  • Be accurate and assertive when you leave messages. Call back again if your physician does not return them.
  • Communicate with physician if cost will be an obstacle to using any medications.
  • Let the doctor know who you are personally.