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.