It’s important to take care of our health. Doctors know a lot about health, so we visit them. Sometimes we might feel scared to ask questions or speak up. But it’s important to be involved in our healthcare. This helps us get the best care possible.

If you are a patient, you have rights that let you be a part of your healthcare. You have the right to:

1. Ask questions and get answers

   You can ask three questions: What’s wrong with me? What should I do? Why should I do it?

2. Get a second opinion

   If you don’t agree with your doctor, you can ask another doctor. Your doctor can suggest another specialist who can help you.

3. Ask your doctor about their experience and training

   This will help you learn more about the person who is treating you.

4. Be informed before giving consent

   Before you choose treatment, make sure you have all the information you need. This includes the benefits and risks, possible side effects, treatment choices, who will provide the treatment, how the treatment will be done, and what will happen if you refuse the treatment. If you are under 18, your parents or guardians can make decisions for you.

5. See your health information

   This includes information about your body, the medical care you got before, and your family’s medical history. There is a law called the Personal Health Information Act (PHIA) that lets you do this. The law also says who else can see your information.

6. Get help if you need it

   If you’re sick or can’t speak, you can ask for a patient advocate. This person can talk to your healthcare team for you. It can be someone you know, like a family member or friend. You can learn more by getting the SAFE Toolkit – Choose your Patient Advocate.

7. Talk to your healthcare team about what you want

   If you can’t talk, you can fill out a Health Care Directive or Living Will. This will help make sure your wishes are followed.

8. Tell them your concerns

   You have the right to be heard. You can ask questions, share your views about your care, or tell your doctor about your complaints and concerns about your treatment.

9. If you get hurt while getting healthcare, you have the right to know what happened

   This is called a critical incident. You should tell someone if you get hurt. If you live in Winnipeg, you can call the Critical Incident Reporting Line at (204) 788-8222. If you live somewhere else in Manitoba, you can contact your regional health authority office. They will help you. It’s important to report any harm that happens.

 
Article updated May 4, 2023.
 
Adapted from the MIPS Know your Patient Rights (full version).