The American Hospital Association (AHA) has developed the Patients’

Posted: April 4th, 2019

Visit http://www.aha.org/advocacy-issues/communicatingpts/pt-care-partnership.shtml and review the American Hospital Association’s Patients’ Bill of Rights. Discuss how health care professionals can ensure that patients’ rights are upheld and protected.

Word limit 500 words . 2-3 references.Please make sure to provide citations and references (in APA, 7th ed. format) .

Discussion: The American Hospital Association’s (AHA) Patients’ Bill Of Rights

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The American Hospital Association (AHA) has developed the Patients’ Bill of Rights to ensure that patients receive high-quality and compassionate care while respecting their autonomy and dignity. Health care professionals play a crucial role in upholding and protecting these rights. This discussion will explore how health care professionals can ensure the rights outlined in the AHA’s Patients’ Bill of Rights are upheld and protected.

One fundamental right outlined in the Patients’ Bill of Rights is the right to considerate and respectful care. Health care professionals can promote this right by treating patients with empathy, compassion, and dignity. They should actively listen to patients, involve them in their care decisions, and address their concerns and preferences. By maintaining open lines of communication and creating a supportive environment, health care professionals can establish a trusting relationship with patients and demonstrate their commitment to providing respectful care (American Hospital Association, n.d.).

Another important right is the right to privacy and confidentiality. Health care professionals should strictly adhere to patient privacy regulations, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), to protect patients’ sensitive information. They should explain to patients the purpose and scope of data collection and obtain their informed consent whenever necessary. Additionally, health care professionals should ensure that patient information is securely stored and only accessible to authorized personnel. Respecting patients’ privacy not only safeguards their personal information but also helps build trust and confidence in the health care system (American Hospital Association, n.d.).

The Patients’ Bill of Rights also emphasizes the right to be informed about one’s medical condition and treatment options. Health care professionals should provide patients with clear and accurate information about their diagnosis, prognosis, and available treatment options. This includes discussing potential risks, benefits, and alternatives to allow patients to make informed decisions about their care. Effective communication techniques, such as using plain language, visual aids, and involving family members or caregivers when appropriate, can enhance patients’ understanding and involvement in their own health care (American Hospital Association, n.d.).

Moreover, health care professionals should uphold the right to access and continuity of care. They should facilitate patients’ access to necessary health care services, ensuring that barriers such as financial constraints or logistical challenges are minimized. Health care professionals can collaborate with patients to develop care plans that consider their unique needs and preferences. Furthermore, they should coordinate care transitions effectively, ensuring a smooth transfer of information and responsibility between different health care settings. By promoting access and continuity of care, health care professionals can enhance patients’ overall experience and improve health outcomes (American Hospital Association, n.d.).

In conclusion, health care professionals have a responsibility to uphold and protect the rights outlined in the AHA’s Patients’ Bill of Rights. By providing considerate and respectful care, safeguarding privacy and confidentiality, ensuring informed consent, and promoting access and continuity of care, health care professionals can contribute to a patient-centered health care system. These actions not only benefit individual patients but also foster trust, engagement, and satisfaction within the broader health care community.

References:

American Hospital Association. (n.d.). Patients’ Bill of Rights. Retrieved from http://www.aha.org/advocacy-issues/communicatingpts/pt-care-partnership.shtml

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