Section 246-330-125. Patient rights and organizational ethics.

The purpose of this section is to improve patient care and outcomes by respecting every patient and maintaining ethical relationships with the public.

Ambulatory surgical facilities must:

(1) Adopt and implement policies and procedures that define each patient's right to:

(a) Be treated and cared for with dignity and respect;

(b) Confidentiality, privacy, security, complaint resolution, spiritual care, and communication. If communication restrictions are necessary for patient care and safety, the facility must document and explain the restrictions to the patient and family;

(c) Be protected from abuse and neglect;

(d) Access protective services;

(e) Complain about their care and treatment without fear of retribution or denial of care;

(f) Timely complaint resolution;

(g) Be involved in all aspects of their care including:

(i) Refusing care and treatment; and

(ii) Resolving problems with care decisions.

(h) Be informed of unanticipated outcomes according to RCW 70.230.150;

(i) Be informed and agree to their care; and

(j) Family input in care decisions, in compliance with existing legal directives of the patient or existing court-issued legal orders.

(2) Provide each patient a written statement of patient rights from subsection (1) of this section.

(3) Adopt and implement policies and procedures to address research, investigation, and clinical trials including:

(a) How to authorize research;

(b) Require staff to follow informed consent laws; and

(c) Not hindering a patient's access to care if a patient refuses to participate.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 70.230 RCW. WSR 09-09-032, § 246-330-125, filed 4/7/09, effective 5/8/09.]

Chapter 70.230 RCW. WSR 09-09-032, § 246-330-125, filed 4/7/09, effective 5/8/09.