Informed consent and right to information

• By coming to hospital, you have agreed to have examinations and simple tests. Some procedures like operations require consent. This means giving your permission in writing that you understand what is happening and agree to it.
• Before you sign the consent form, your doctor will explain the treatment or procedure, its effects, likely success, and any alternatives. If you do not understand, ask questions until you are satisfied.

Consent to being treated by a student or taking part in research

• The Royal Hobart Hospital, Launceston General Hospital and the North West Regional Hospital are teaching hospitals of the University of Tasmania.
• They have a responsibility for teaching a wide range of students in the health care professions.
• Your permission may be asked to help in our education of students and research studies if appropriate.
• Your permission is required for participation in either of these. You have the right to say no.

Your right to information

You have the right to access your personal records, patient files or other personal information held by the hospital and healthcare workers treating you or the Department of Health. Learn more about accessing your personal information.

A list of your rights accessing outpatient services        

• To choose to receive public facility services free of charge as a public patient.
• To be treated based on the urgency of your health needs and receive timely specialist advice
• To access all public health services equally no matter where you may live in Tasmania.
• To be treated with respect, dignity and consideration for your privacy, religion, and cultural background.
• To be provided with an individual appointment time.
• To have your health condition explained to you in easy-to-understand terms.
• To know and understand the choices and treatment options available to you.
• To know what treatment course is being recommended and how this will affect you.
• To be able to seek another medical opinion, where possible.
• To be provided with appropriate and easily understood information about your health care.
• To participate in any decision making regarding your health care.
• To expect that your personal information remains confidential.
• To seek access to your own health record. Ask the hospital staff for a booklet that explains how to do this.  
• To expect that your own doctor will be kept informed of your treatment.
• To comment on your experience. That includes providing feedback or a complaint.
• To have an interpreter explain information and assist you to make decisions about your treatment options.

Learn more about the rights that people can expect when receiving health care on the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care website.

Your responsibilities when accessing outpatient services

To ensure that your visit runs smoothly there are several things that must do.

Provide us with complete and accurate details of: 

• your current address and contact phone numbers
• your Medicare number and Health Concession card
• if you need an interpreter or other special assistance to access the service
• your specific cultural or religious beliefs which may have implications for your health care.
• Inform as soon as possible if: 
  • you are on a waiting list with another health services for the same health problem
  • you change your address or contact phone numbers
  • you change your GP – provide us with their contact details
  • you no longer require an appointment.
• Keep any appointments that have been made for you or let us know if you are unable to attend for any reason. Remember that this appointment time could be used for another person needing treatment.
• Treat all health care staff and other patients with respect, dignity and consideration for their religious and cultural beliefs.
• Respect the privacy of other patients.
• Arrive on time for your booked outpatient service appointment.
• Be active in your treatment. If you do not understand anything about your illness or treatment, ask questions. Staff can provide further support if needed.
• Do not consent to any treatment that you do not understand – ask questions.
• Learn more about accessing your personal information and health records in the Personal Information and Medical Records section.