Patient rights refer to the fundamental rights that all individuals have when receiving medical care. These rights include the right to receive quality care, access to medical information, privacy and confidentiality, informed consent, and the right to voice concerns or file complaints.

Patient rights are important because they protect individuals and ensure they receive safe, ethical, and respectful medical care. They empower patients to actively participate in their healthcare decisions and hold healthcare providers accountable for their actions.

Some common patient rights include the right to be treated with dignity and respect, the right to access medical records, the right to make decisions about medical treatment, the right to informed consent, the right to privacy and confidentiality, and the right to voice complaints or concerns.

Patients can uphold their rights by being knowledgeable about their rights, asking questions, and actively participating in their healthcare decisions. They can also communicate their concerns or complaints to healthcare providers, seek a second opinion if necessary, and utilize support resources such as patient advocacy organizations.

If patients believe their rights have been violated, they should first try to address the issue directly with the healthcare provider or facility. If the issue remains unresolved, they can file a complaint with the appropriate regulatory body or seek legal advice. It is important for patients to document any incidents and gather evidence to support their claim.