Patient Responsibilities

Health care organizations are entitled to reasonable and responsible behavior on the part of the patient and his/her family. Such responsibilities may include, but need not be limited to the following:

As a patient you have the responsibility to . . .

Follow the treatment plan recommended by your doctor. This may include following the instructions of nurses and other health care personnel who carry out doctor's orders and/or plan of care.
Notify Iberia Medical Center if you are unable to keep appointments for outpatient services.
Provide, to the best of your knowledge, accurate and complete information about present complaints, past illnesses, hospitalization, medications and other matters concerning your health.
Ask questions whenever you do not understand the information or instructions being provided.
Assist with pain management by:

· discussing relief with your healthcare providers

· asking for pain medication when pain first begins

· telling your physician or nurse if you are in pain

Report perceived risks in your care and unexpected changes in your condition to the person in charge of your care.
Meet financial obligations regarding your health care as promptly as possible.
Treat other patients and personnel with respect.
Accept the consequences of your actions if you refuse treatment or if instructions are not followed.
Be courteous and considerate of the needs of other patients, staff and hospital property. You are responsible for assisting in the control of noise and the number of visitors to your room.
Respect the property of other patients, the staff and the hospital.
Inform healthcare personnel of desired changes in your Advance Directives.
Provide own safekeeping of clothing, money or any other personal possessions you choose to keep with you while you are in the facility.
Recognize the effect of life-style on your personal health. Your health depends not just on your hospital care, but also on the decisions made in day-to-day living.