Patient Rights | Chronic Pain Support Group

Living with Chronic Pain is frustrating. I think that one of the biggest reasons is that no one can see your pain, and you tend to look healthy. That is one of the reasons patient rights matter. Sometimes someone may notice that you look a little tired or that you look like you don’t feel well. When you see someone walking around with a cast on their arm or foot, or you notice someone walking with a cane, you know they don’t feel well. With chronic pain, no one can see it. Pain is also unique because your pain is different than anyone else. That is why treating chronic pain can be so difficult, especially since no two of us are alike! Just because you have a health concern that no one can see doesn’t mean it isn’t real. It also doesn’t mean you are any less entitled to the same patient rights as everyone else.

What Are Patient Rights?

 

Speaking Up for Yourself as a Patient

• Everyone has the right to be treated with respect. Keep in mind that you also need to show respect.
• Questions are a good thing to ask, so exercise your right to ask them.
• Information is key to making decisions, so ask for additional information if you need it.
• Each of us has our own opinions, and you can disagree with your healthcare provider or ask questions about their recommendations.
• If you are uncomfortable with a recommendation or treatment, speak up, ask questions, and make sure you understand your options before making a decision.
• You have the right not to have to explain everything you do or think
• Most people make mistakes, and we have that right as well.
• We should feel good about ourselves, especially when we don’t feel well.
• Questions are a good thing to ask, so exercise your right to ask them.
• All of us want different things, so make sure to ask for what you want.
• Express your feelings and make sure they are taken seriously and that the person you are talking to listens to you.
• I always joke and say that I reserve the right to change my mind.
• It’s okay to do less than you are capable of doing on some occasions.
• Slow down and take the time you need to think before you act.
• Always act in a manner that promotes dignity and self-respect.
• If you need help, ask for assistance.

Remember these patient rights when dealing with your healthcare providers and when dealing with yourself.  Sometimes we are harder on ourselves with our self-talk than others often are. Advocating for yourself includes asking questions, speaking up when something doesn’t feel right, and giving yourself permission to ask for help when you need it. For more information, view the AMA Code of Ethics.

Key Takeaways

• Living with an invisible condition like chronic pain or an illness doesn’t make your health concerns any less real.
• Patient rights include your right to be treated with dignity and respect when receiving healthcare.
• It’s important to ask questions and request additional information when you don’t understand something about your care.
• Make sure you take the time you need to understand your treatment options and participate in the decisions you need to make regarding your health.
• Advocating for yourself means speaking up about your needs, concerns, and preferences.
• It’s ok to disagree, ask questions, or seek clarification while maintaining a respectful relationship with your healthcare providers.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it; it is another important part of taking care of yourself.

Continue exploring: Visit the Living With Chronic Pain Learning Center for more practical information and resources to help you manage chronic pain and advocate for your health.