Everyone has a right to know the person that is providing health care and, therefore, must be attended to by only clearly identified health care providers.

Information concerning one’s health, including information concerning treatment may only be disclosed with informed consent, except when required in terms of any law or any order of court.

Everyone has a right to be given full and accurate information about the nature of one’s illnesses, diagnostic procedures, the proposed treatment and risks associated therewith and the costs involved.

A person may refuse treatment and such refusal shall be verbal or in writing, provided that such refusal does not endanger the health of others.

Everyone has the right on request to be referred for a second opinion to a health provider of one’s choice.

No one shall be abandoned by a health care professional who or a health facility which initially took responsibility for one’s health without appropriate referral or hand-over.

Everyone has the right to complain about health care services, to have such complaints investigated and to receive a full response on such investigation

Everyone has a right to choose a particular health care provider for services or a particular health facility for treatment, provided that such choice shall not be contrary to the ethical standards applicable to such health care provider or facility.

A member of a health insurance or medical aid scheme is entitled to information about that health insurance or medical aid scheme and to challenge, where necessary, the decision of such health insurance or medical aid scheme relating to the member.

Everyone has the right to access to health care services that include: Receiving timely emergency care at any health care facility that is open, regardless of one’s ability to pay. Treatment and rehabilitation that must be made known to the patient to enable the patient to understand such treatment or rehabilitation and the consequences thereof. Provision for special needs in the case of newborn infants, children, pregnant women, the aged, disabled persons, patients in pain, persons living with HIV or AIDS patients. Counselling without discrimination, coercion or violence on matters such as reproductive health, cancer or HIV/AIDS;Palliative care that is affordable and effective in cases of incurable or terminal illness. A positive disposition displayed by health care providers that demonstrates courtesy, human dignity, patience, empathy and tolerance. Health information that includes information on the availability of health services and how best to use such services, and such information shall be in the language understood by the patient.

Every citizen has the right to participate in the development of health policies, whereas everyone has the right to participate in decision-making on matters affecting one’s own health.

Everyone has a right to a healthy and safe environment that will ensure their physical and mental health or well-being.