Upholding Patient Rights: A Medical Pledge Fulfilled

As a doctor, I took the Hippocratic Oath when I embarked on this noble journey in the field of medicine.

I Solemnly Pledge to dedicate my life to the service of humanity;

The Health & Well being of my Patient will be my first consideration;

I will respect the autonomy and dignity of my patient;

I will maintain the utmost respect for human life;

I will not permit considerations of age, disease or disability, creed, ethnic origin, gender, nationality, political affiliation, race, sexual orientation, social standing, or any other factor to intervene between my duty and my patient;

I will respect the secrets that are confided in me, even after the patient has died;

I will practice my profession with conscience and dignity and in accordance with good medical practice;

I will foster the honor and noble traditions of the medical profession;

I will give to my teachers, colleagues, and students the respect and gratitude that is their due;

I will share my medical knowledge for the benefit of the patient and the advancement of healthcare;

I will attend my own health, well-being, and abilities in order to provide care of the highest standard;

I will not use my medical knowledge to violate human rights and civil liberties, even under threat;

I make these promises solemnly, freely, and upon my honour.

This oath is not merely a ceremonial tradition; it's a solemn commitment to uphold the highest standards of ethics and care for patients. 

At its core lies the fundamental principle of respecting and safeguarding patient rights.

Today, on World Patient's Safety Awareness Day, let's delve into the vital aspects of patient rights, as outlined in the oath, and how they are crucial in today's healthcare landscape. 

In India, healthcare often becomes a matter of crisis management, where doctors' decisions hold supreme authority. 

Patients and their families typically find themselves in a position where they have little control or understanding of their treatment. This paternalistic approach often leads to over-hospitalisation, excessive medications, and unnecessary tests, causing concern among healthcare consumers. 

One significant issue is the lack of clear communication. 

Patients are often left in the dark regarding their diagnosis, illness, and treatment plans. 

Complex medical jargon further complicates matters, as doctors may not take the time to simplify explanations. 

This communication gap contributes to mistrust between the private and public healthcare sectors, hindering standardisation of care and patients' rights. 

1. Right to Information

Every patient has the right to comprehensive information about their health, diagnosis, treatment, and potential complications.

This information should be presented in a manner that's understandable to the patient, ensuring transparency and informed decision-making.

2. Right to Records and Reports

Access to medical records is another critical patient right. 

Patients, or their caregivers, should have prompt access to their case papers, reports, and records, both during hospitalisation and post-discharge.

3. Right to Emergency Medical Care

The Supreme Court mandates that all hospitals, whether public or private, must provide basic emergency medical care to all, regardless of their ability to pay. 

Immediate attention and care during emergencies are vital aspects of this right.

4. Right to Informed Consent

Informed consent is a cornerstone of medical ethics. 

Patients must provide their consent in writing before undergoing any potentially risky medical procedures. 

This ensures that patients are fully aware of the associated risks and benefits.

5. Right to Confidentiality, Human Dignity, and Privacy

Respecting a patient's privacy and maintaining the confidentiality of their health information is paramount. 

This includes the right to have a same-gender attendant during physical examinations by a physician of the opposite gender.

6. Right to Second Opinion

Patients have the right to seek a second opinion from another clinician of their choice. 

Hospitals should facilitate this right by providing necessary records and information without delay or additional cost.

7. Right to Transparency in Rates and Care

Hospitals must display their service rates prominently and provide itemised bills to patients.

Transparency in billing ensures that patients are aware of the costs associated with their treatment.

8. Right to Non-Discrimination

Discrimination based on illness, religion, caste, gender, age, or other factors is strictly prohibited.

All patients have the right to receive treatment without bias.

9. Right to Safety and Quality Care

Patients have the right to receive care in a safe and clean environment. 

This includes access to clean water, infection control measures, and adherence to established quality standards.

10. Right to Choose Source for Obtaining Medicines or Tests

Patients have the liberty to choose where they obtain prescribed medicines or tests. 

This ensures competition and patient choice in healthcare services.

11. Right to Proper Referral and Transfer

Patients should be given the right to continuity of care and be registered at all facilities they visit.

 Referrals and transfers should be free from commercial influences.

12. Right to Take Discharge of Patient, or Receive Body of Deceased

Patients cannot be detained in a hospital over payment disputes, and the deceased patient's body should be released to caregivers without procedural delays.

13. Right to Patient Education

Patient education is key to informed healthcare decisions. 

Patients have the right to understand their conditions, treatment options, and available healthcare support.

14. Right to be Heard and Seek Redressal

Patients and caregivers have the right to provide feedback, comments, or complaints about their healthcare experiences. 

Effective grievance mechanisms should be in place to address these concerns.

To address these concerns, several laws in India aim to protect patient rights and ensure informed healthcare: 

The Constitution of India: 

Upholds the right to life and personal liberty, emphasising the right to quality healthcare. 

Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette, and Ethics) Regulations 2002: 

Provides guidelines for ethical medical practices and doctor-patient relationships. 

The Consumer Protection Act 1986: 

Safeguards consumer interests, including healthcare, by addressing issues of negligence and malpractice. 

Drugs and Cosmetic Act 1940: 

Regulates the import, manufacture, distribution, and sale of drugs, ensuring their quality and safety. 

Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2010: 

Focuses on standardising healthcare facilities and services to improve patient care. 

Indian Penal Code, 1860, and Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973: 

Contain provisions related to medical negligence and criminal liability in healthcare. 

These legislations collectively work towards creating a framework where patients have the right to be informed, make decisions about their health, and receive ethical and quality care. 

It's essential for patients to be aware of these rights, ensuring their active participation in their healthcare journey.

In adhering to the principles of the Hippocratic Oath and recognising these patient rights, healthcare providers not only fulfil their ethical obligations but also contribute to building a healthcare system rooted in trust, respect, and compassion. 

Upholding these rights is not just a responsibility; it's a collective commitment to ensuring that every patient receives the best possible care while retaining their dignity and autonomy.

In honouring patient rights, we illuminate a path to compassionate and dignified healthcare. 

Together, let's stand for a healthier, more equitable world.