Republic of the Philippines Department of Health

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY

February 3, 2017

DEPARTMENT MEMORANDUM No. 2017- OOGi

FOR: ALL UNDERSECRETARIES. ASSISTANT SECRETARIES.DIRECTORS OF BUREAS. REGIONAL OFFICES ANDSERVICES; CHIEF OF MEDICAL CENTERS. HOSPITALS.SANITARIA AND INSTITUTES: DIRECTORS OF TREATMENTAND REHABILITATION CENTERS: EXECUTIVE DIRECTORSOF SPECIALTY HOSPITALS: AND OTHERS CONCERNED

SUBJECT: Official Version of the Patient’s Rit^hts

This memorandum is to inform all offices, bureaus, services and health facilities of the DOH that the Office of the President — Presidential Human Rights Committee (OP-PHRC) requested for a copy of the “Patient’s Rights”. The OP-PHRC intends to propagate this after it has been translated into different major languages.

Attached, please find the official Patient’s Rights document that shall be used in all DOH hospitals, treatment and rehabilitation centers and other types of health facilities. All are enjoined to disseminate this information in as much as everyone is a potential patient. The Health Facility and Services Regulatory Bureau is directed to enforce the implementation of the posting of this document in appropriate strategic areas in the health facility.

For strict compliance.

OSELL-UBrAL, MD, MPH, CESOII Secretary of Health

Building 1, San Lazaro Compound, Rizal Avenue, Sta. Cruz, 1003 Manila • Trunk Line 651-7800 local 1113,1108,1135Direct Line; 711-9502; 711-9503 Fax: 743-1829 • URL: http://www.doh.gov.ph; e-mail: officeofsoh@doh.gov.nh .

PATIENT’S RIGHTS

We encourage you to speak openly with your health care provider, take part in yourtreatment choices, and protect your own safety by being well informed and involved in yourcare. As a patient at___________________ (name of Hospital), you have the following rights;

1. You have the right to receive considerate, respectful and compassionate health care in a safe setting regardless of your age, sex, gender, religion, ethnicity, political affiliation, disability or capacity to pay free from all forms of abuse, neglect, or ill treatment.

2. You have the right to be assigned to a competent doctor/resident physician and be told of the names of all health care team members who are qualified to provide diagnosis, treatment and medical advice. Likewise, you have the right to know your hospital and physician fees, and receive information about the possibility of financial assistance.

3. You have the right to notify a family member or person of your choice and your chosen doctor of your admission to the hospital.

4. You have the right to have someone remain with you during your hospital stay unless it compromises your or others’ rights, safety or health.

5. You have the right to exercise your spiritual and cultural beliefs within the capacity and rules of the hospital/medical center.

6. You have the right to be informed and give consent before any non-emergency procedure or research/experiment or to refuse such.

7. You have the right to privacy and confidentiality of your medical records according to laws, as well as in care discussions, examinations, and treatments and the right to see or get a copy of your medical records except those records restricted by law.

8. You may request for an escort during physical examinations.

9. You have the right to be represented by someone (assignee) to decide on your behalf when the circumstances warrant.

10. You have the right to ask about and be informed of the complaint process and express grievances without fear of recrimination or reprisal. You are encouraged to speak directly to the health care provider involved in your care.

If there are issues not resolved to your satisfaction, or if you would like the help of someone not immediately involved, talk to the Patient Relations Staff or to the Chief of Hospital or Hospital Director.

If you find the above avenues unsatisfactory, you may choose to file a formal grievance with following agencies:

DOH-Regional Office_ Department of Health- Central Office Health Facilities & Services Regulatory Bureau (02) 651-7800 local_____