Patient Rights and Responsibilities

We believe that a successful therapeutic relationship is built on mutual respect and collaboration. Below are your rights as a patient and the responsibilities we ask you to assume to ensure the best possible outcome for your treatment.

Your Rights as a Patient

In accordance with Florida Statutes and federal regulations, you have the right to:

  • Respectful Treatment: Receive respectful, compassionate, and dignified care at all times, regardless of race, national origin, religion, disability, or payment source.
  • Confidentiality under applicable law: Have your medical information handled in accordance with applicable medical privacy law and the practice privacy notice. Florida law may provide additional protections for mental health records.
  • Informed Consent: Receive clear, understandable information about your diagnosis, treatment options, risks and benefits of medications, and alternative treatments before giving consent.
  • Active Participation: Participate actively in decisions about your treatment plan and have your preferences considered.
  • Right to Refuse Treatment: Refuse any recommended treatment, including experimental procedures, with an understanding of the medical consequences of your decision.
  • Access to Records: Request access to your medical records in accordance with state and federal law, subject to certain safety exceptions.
  • Second Opinion: Seek a second opinion from another qualified mental health professional at any time.
  • Language Services: Request interpreter services if English is not your primary language or if you have communication barriers.
  • Clear Information: Ask questions and receive clear answers about our policies, fees, and billing practices.
  • File Complaints: File grievances or complaints about your care without fear of retaliation. You may contact the Florida Department of Health or the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration.
  • Privacy During Communication: Communicate privately with your attorney, family members, or other persons of your choosing, subject to reasonable facility rules.

Your Responsibilities as a Patient

To help us provide you with the best possible care, we ask that you:

  • Provide Accurate Information: Give complete and accurate information about your medical history, current symptoms, medications, and allergies.
  • Attend Appointments: Arrive on time for scheduled appointments or cancel with the required advance notice as outlined in our Cancellation Policy.
  • Follow Treatment Plan: Comply with the agreed-upon treatment plan, including taking medications as directed by your provider and following recommended lifestyle modifications.
  • Communicate Changes: Promptly report any problems, side effects, or changes in your condition to your healthcare provider.
  • Honor Financial Obligations: Make timely payments for services received, including copayments and cancellation fees, as outlined in our Billing Policy.
  • Ask Questions: Seek clarification when you don't understand your diagnosis, treatment plan, or instructions.
  • Respectful Behavior: Treat our staff and other patients with courtesy, respect, and consideration.
  • Inform Us of Coverage Changes: Notify our office promptly of any changes to your insurance coverage or contact information.

Filing a Complaint

If you have concerns about your care or believe your rights have been violated, you may file a complaint with:

Florida Department of Health

Consumer Services Unit

Phone: 1-850-245-4444 (Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm EST)

Mailing Address: 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin C-75, Tallahassee, FL 32399-3275

Website: floridahealth.gov

Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA)

Health Care Complaint Hotline

Phone: 1-888-419-3456 (24/7 automated system)

TTY (Florida Relay): 1-800-955-8771

Mailing Address: 2727 Mahan Drive, Mail Stop #3, Tallahassee, FL 32308

Website: Florida Agency for Health Care Administration

Online Complaint Form: File a Health Care Facility Complaint

Policy Acknowledgment

By receiving services at Healing Minds Psychiatry, you acknowledge that you have been informed of your rights and responsibilities as a patient and agree to participate in your treatment in accordance with these principles.