Learn to be safe....Taking action to prevent harm

The healthcare system is complex and it can be overwhelming. While our healthcare experiences are most often positive, that is not always the case. Patient Safety is about taking action to prevent harm to patients from healthcare services. Healthcare providers do their best to provide safe care. You also have a role, and one of the best ways you can help is to be involved.

How can you play an active role in your own healthcare?

It begins with knowing your patient rights & responsibilities. This article describes four rights every patient has that will help you engage in order to stay safe. 

You have the right to ask questions and get answers in a timely manner.
In any healthcare situation, don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you’re unsure of what you should ask, start with our three It’s Safe to Ask questions:
1. What is my health problem? 
2. What do I need to do? 
3. Why do I need to do this?

You have the right to seek a second opinion.
If you have any concerns about the healthcare advice or directions you are receiving, you can ask for a referral to get a second opinion.

You have the right to ask about your healthcare provider’s experience and training.
You put a lot of trust in your healthcare providers. Don’t hesitate to ask and learn about their experience.

It’s your right to be fully informed before you give or refuse consent.
You make informed decisions all the time. The decisions you make about your healthcare should be informed as well. To start, if a treatment is recommended to you, ask if there are any other options you should consider. Once you know your treatment options, it’s important to know the benefits and risks including any possible side effects of those treatments. Finally, you should also understand what would happen if you refuse treatment. A little information can go a long way in ensuring you’re comfortable with your healthcare decisions. If you have any questions, ask.

Remember, knowing your patient rights can help you be a more active and confident participant in your healthcare. For information about your patient rights and other patient safety topics, please visit safetoask.ca and browse through the S.A.F.E. Toolkit. You may also call 204-927-6477 or 1-866-927-6477.  

Learn to be safe!


This article was originally part part of a series published in the Senior Scope in 2018, with articles on patient safety based on the S.A.F.E. Toolkit. The series was written by Laurie Thompson, who is executive director of the Manitoba Institute for Patient Safety.