The Australian Charter of Health Care Rights describes the rights of patients and other people using the Australian Health Care system. These rights are essential to ensure that the provided care is of the highest quality and safety standards.

Access – I have a right to health care (this means you can access services to address your healthcare needs).

Safety – I have a right to receive safe and high quality care (this means you should receive safe and high quality services, provided with professional care, skill and competence).

Respect – I have the right to be shown respect, dignity and consideration, (this means the care provided shows respect to you and your culture, beliefs, values and personal characteristics).

Communication – I have a right to be informed about services, treatment, options and cost in a clear and open way (this means you receive open, timely and appropriate communication about your health care in a way you can understand).

Participation – I have a right to be included in decisions and choices about my care (this means you may join in making decisions and choices about your care and about health service planning).

Privacy – I have a right to privacy and confidentiality regarding my personal information (this means your personal privacy is maintained and proper handling of your personal health and other information is assured).

Comment – I have a right to comment on my care and to have my concerns considered and addressed (this means you can comment on, or complain about your care and have your concerns dealt with).