Patient Rights
Everyone receiving healthcare in New Zealand has rights under the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights.
Your rights include the right:
To be treated with respect
To freedom from discrimination, coercion, harassment and exploitation
To dignity and independence
To services of an appropriate standard
To effective communication
To the information needed to make decisions
To make an informed choice and give informed consent
To have support people present
To make a complaint
Making decisions about your care
You are entitled to information you can understand about:
Your condition
Available options
Expected benefits and risks
Likely costs
Test and treatment results
What may happen if you choose not to proceed
You may ask questions, seek another opinion, request more time where appropriate or withdraw consent.
Communication and cultural safety
Please tell us if you need:
An interpreter
Information in another format
Help understanding written information
A support person or advocate
Cultural or spiritual support
Assistance communicating because of disability