Everyone receiving health care in NSW has important rights. These rights help ensure care is safe, respectful, and focused on the needs of each person.
NSW Health follows two important charters. These charters help everyone understand and respect the rights of people receiving care. They help patients, families, carers and health staff work together.
The Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights includes the right to:
We are committed to safeguarding the privacy of patient information. Our staff are bound by law and a strict code of conduct to maintain confidentiality. For more information, see patient privacy.
The Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights also comes in a range of other formats to suit different needs:
The Charter on the Rights of Children and Young People in Healthcare Services in Australia highlights the unique needs and rights of children (0 to 12 years) and young people (12 to 24 years) in healthcare. It ensures that they are heard and respected in decisions about their care.
How care is delivered is just as important as the care itself. It is about putting the patient at the centre of everything we do and treating them as a person. Elevating the Human Experience - Our guide to action for patient, family, carer and caregiver experiences explains what patients can expect from us and details our plan for delivering it in partnership with them and their communities.
If you’re worried that your rights, or those of a child or young person, are not being respected, talk to a health professional or the nurse or midwife in charge.
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