Patient’s Rights and Responsibilities

At Burslem Medical Centre, we recognise and respect that all patients have important rights and responsibilities in relation to their healthcare.

🟢 Patients have the right to:

• Receive considerate and respectful care, regardless of personal beliefs, cultural background, or religious practices.

• Request interpreter services to support clear communication.

• Know the name of the doctor primarily responsible for your care, and the roles of other staff involved in your treatment.

• Seek a second opinion and to refuse the presence of healthcare workers not directly involved in your care.

• Be referred to other medical providers (e.g. specialists) when it is in your best interest.

• Receive clear, non-technical explanations about your condition, treatment options, discharge plans, and follow-up care.

• Be contacted in a timely manner regarding test results and follow-up treatment plans.

• Be fully informed of proposed treatments, including risks, benefits, alternatives, and the consequences of declining treatment — before giving consent.

• Understand how your medical information is used to ensure continuity of care.

• Refuse recommended treatments, tests, or procedures unless prohibited by law.

• Participate in decisions that affect your healthcare.

• Be informed of any fees or charges related to your care.

• Decline participation in any medical research or experimental treatment without fear of compromise to your care.

• Expect confidentiality and privacy in all aspects of your medical care. No information will be shared without your consent, unless required by law or necessary to assist with your care.

• Receive care in a safe environment with private, respectful appointment settings.

• Raise concerns, provide feedback, or make complaints about your treatment or the quality of care — without fear of discrimination or negative consequences.

🟡 Patients have the responsibility to:

• Respect the privacy and confidentiality of other patients — sharing another person’s medical information is illegal.

• Provide accurate and complete information about your health, including current symptoms, past illnesses, medications, and other relevant details.

• Inform your healthcare provider of any changes in your condition.

• Ask questions if you don’t understand your treatment plan or what is expected of you.

• Follow the treatment plan recommended by your doctor and other healthcare professionals involved in your care.

• Actively participate in decisions about your care, or appoint a legal guardian or substitute decision-maker to do so on your behalf.

• Attend appointments on time and notify the practice if you are unable to attend.

• Provide accurate information about your ability to pay for services, where relevant.

• Accept responsibility for the outcome of declining or not following medical advice.

• Be considerate of the rights and safety of other patients and staff.

• Respect property belonging to other individuals and the practice.

• Behave lawfully and contribute to a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment.