As a person receiving treatment in the emergency department, you have rights.

A hospital must protect and promote each patient’s rights. If you are receiving treatment in an emergency department, and believe you are being discriminated against or treated unjustly, you have the right to advocate for your medical and human needs.

You have the right to:

  • Respect, Dignity and Comfort
  • Freedom from all forms of abuse, harassment and discrimination
  • Freedom from restraint and seclusion except when required for immediate safety
  • Care and treatment in a safe and private setting
  • Have your medical records kept confidential, with some exceptions
  • Access your medical records, with some exceptions
  • Be informed of your rights during your hospitalization
  • Know who is treating you
  • Be informed of your treatment in terms you, or the person you choose, can understand
  • Be informed of risks, benefits and alternatives to procedures
  • Be informed of necessary outpatient services for your discharge
  • Access to an interpreter
  • Access to someone authorized to help you protect your rights
  • Be informed of the grievance process and who to contact to file a grievance
  • To choose visitors who will have the same visiting privileges as immediate family
  • Receive and examine a detailed explanation of your medical bills
  • Information and counseling on financial resources for your health care

Note: this is not an exhaustive list. Please view the following resources for a summary of your complete rights.

Please contact Disability Rights NC if you believe your rights have been violated.

To report abuse or neglect in a facility, call 919-856-2195 and select option 7.

Printable brochures and posters for use in Emergency Departments