What are my rights when using health and disability services?

General information from Lawmateanz

In New Zealand, the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers' Rights gives everyone using health and disability services 10 rights. These include being treated with respect, being fully informed, making an informed choice and giving consent, and having support.

The Code applies to all providers, including doctors, hospitals, residential care and disability support services.

If you have a concern, you can raise it with the provider first. Free, independent advocates from the Health and Disability Advocacy Service (0800 555 050) can help.

You can also complain to the Health and Disability Commissioner, which is free.

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