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Patient Rights and Responsibilities

PATIENT RIGHTS
Equal Treatment and Nondiscrimination

ACCESS complies with federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, language, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, economic status, religious beliefs, or moral convictions.

Patients have the right to:
  • Nondiscriminatory access to services, as specified in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 US 12101).
  • Be treated with respect, dignity, and consideration.
  • Not be denied services on the basis of HIV status.
  • Be provided with services in the least restrictive environment available.
Informed and Involved Health Care
Patients have the right to:
  • Participate in health care decisions, choose or change providers, and request a chaperone during exams or procedures.
  • Know your care team, receive clear information about your condition and treatment, be involved in discharge planning when appropriate, and refuse treatment.
  • Information about ACCESS’ process for resolving complaints.
Privacy and Confidentiality
Patients have the right to:
  • Privacy in your treatment and in addressing personal needs, with full recognition of your dignity and individuality.
  • Confidentiality of patient records as specified in Section 2060.323 of the IDHS Administrative Rules, Title 77, Code 2060.
  • Confidentiality of HIV/AIDS status and testing and anonymous testing.
  • Give or withhold informed consent regarding treatment and regarding confidential patient information.
Support Services and Accessible Communication
Patients have the right to:
  • Various types of support for your emotional, social, and spiritual needs.
  • Receive information in a manner that meets your needs such as interpreters or accessible materials and, if necessary, be referred to community resources.
Financial Transparency and Assistance
Patients have the right to:
  • Receive, review, and request an explanation of your bill, including an itemized statement, regardless of the payment source.
  • Not be denied services if you are unable to pay and may request information about financial assistance.
  • Apply for a sliding fee scale at the front desk.
 
PATIENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Respect and Safety

ACCESS does not tolerate behaviors that are aggressive, destructive, and/or pose a threat to the rights or safety of other patients and staff. To keep you and our staff safe, we respond appropriately to all threats, including a request to voluntarily leave the premises and up to calling law enforcement.

Patients are responsible for:
  • Treating providers, staff, other patients, and property with respect and courtesy, ensuring a safe and confidential environment for all.
  • Reporting any threatening or aggressive behaviors you witness to an ACCESS staff member.
Providing Information and Financial Responsibility
Patients are responsible for:
  • Supplying accurate and complete information about your health, medications, treatment history, insurance coverage, payment sources and program eligibility.
  • Reporting any changes in residency, employment, insurance, or financial status.
  • Meeting any financial obligations you have agreed to with ACCESS.
  • Completing enrollment documents, certifying eligibility annually (if applicable), and providing any required documentation to determine eligibility when requested (such as for Ryan White services).
  • Asking questions about your treatment, services, or financial aspects and reporting any changes in condition, worsening symptoms, reactions to treatment, or ongoing pain.
Following Care Plans and Keeping Appointments
Patients are responsible for:
  • Adhering to your agreed-upon care plan, including attending recommended visits with providers, who may adjust the visit frequency when needed.
  • Notifying your provider of any pain you are experiencing and working with your care team to achieve effective pain management.
  • Accepting responsibility for resulting health outcomes if you choose not to follow medical advice or your care treatment plan.
  • Communicating any concerns about your ability to follow the plan so providers and care team members can offer assistance.
  • Notifying your provider of any pain you are experiencing and working with your care team to achieve effective pain management.
  • Keeping scheduled appointments and, if necessary, canceling or rescheduling in advance. Missing appointments may delay services until contact with the provider is re-established.
Voicing Concerns
Patients are responsible for:
  • Voicing concerns, reporting rights violations, and suggesting changes to policies or services without fear of retaliation.
  • Providing feedback about your care and overall experience to help improve services.
 
To provide feedback or submit a complaint: