Patient

Patient Rights and Responsibilities

Patient Rights and Responsibilities

As a Valued Patient at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC), you have the following rights:

  • Receive information about the availability of care, services, and how to access them appropriately.
  • Receive protection if you are a vulnerable child, adult, or elderly person, including those with special needs.
  • Receive care regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability.
  • Have your personal dignity, privacy, culture, psychosocial and personal values, beliefs, and preferences respected.
  • Be in a clean and safe environment.
  • Have your pain assessed and managed on time.
  • Access spiritual care services available in the community.
  • Access interpretation services.
  • Be free from all forms of harassment or assault.
  • Receive visitors unless it would compromise your treatment.
  • Be informed of your medical condition(s), treatment plan, and anticipated outcomes in a way you or your family/caregiver can understand, including:
    • Risks and benefits associated with treatment.
    • A plan for continuity of care following discharge.
  • Know the names/titles of your healthcare providers.
  • Request a change of provider or a second opinion.
  • Request a medical report and access your medical record as permitted by law.
  • Be informed about your financial responsibilities.
  • Refuse, discontinue treatment, or leave against the doctor’s advice as permitted by law.
  • Provide your written consent before any video recordings or other images being taken.
  • To identify who the patient wants to participate in care decisions.

As a valued patient at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC), you have the following responsibilities:

  • Bring your valid Emirates ID (“resident”) or Passport (“non-resident”) with you every visit.
  • Keep scheduled appointments, arrive on time, or let them know in advance if you would like to reschedule.
  • Sign a general consent for treatment after having the scope and limits fully explained. Children under 18 years old should be accompanied by a consenting adult family member.
  • Give complete and accurate information about your health, including medical history and medications.
  • Let them know if you don’t understand the information they give you about your condition or treatment.
  • Inform them of changes in your condition or symptoms, including pain that you have.
  • Follow regulations regarding patient/visitor conduct, no smoking, and visitation timings.
  • Show respect and courtesy to staff and other patients.
  • Take responsibility for the outcomes if you decide not to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions and/or treatment plan and recommendations.
  • Speak up and communicate your concerns to any employee as soon as possible.
  • Pay your bills or make arrangements to meet the financial obligations arising from your care.
  • Leave your valuables at home or entrust them to the Security Department.

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