Support and advocacy is a very important aspect of health in New Zealand.
Everyone using a health or disablity service has the protection of a Code of Rights. An independent Commissioner promotes these rights under a New Zealand law called the Health and Disability Commissioner Act 1994.
The Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights 1996 specifies patients’ rights when receiving healthcare services. These are:
- Right 1 Right to be treated with respect
- Right 2 Right to freedom from discrimination, coercion, harassment and exploitation
- Right 3 Right to dignity and independence
- Right 4 Right to services of an appropriate standard
- Right 5 Right to effective communication
- Right 6 Right to be fully informed
- Right 7 Right to make an informed choice and give informed consent
- Right 8 Right to support
- Right 9 Rights in respect of teaching or research
- Right 10 Right to complain
Further information may be obtained on the Health & Disability Commmissioner's website.