Self-Advocacy for Everyone

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 to their best to provide safe care, and you also have a role.

One of the best ways you can help is to be involved.

How can you play an active role in your own healthcare? The first place to start is to understand that as a patient you have rights. There are nine rights you have as a patient in Manitoba. Knowing your patient rights can help you be a more active and confident participant in your healthcare.

Another way to stay involved is to keep your own healthcare plan. Your healthcare plan is a record of your past, current and future health information and goals. Creating and keeping your own healthcare plan is one way to be more involved in your healthcare decision making. Keeping records of your treatment plan and medications are important, and you can ask for written instructions to make it easier to remember what to do.

Your healthcare plan is continually evolving and its strength depends on your relationships with those involved.

A strong relationship with your healthcare team involves two-way communication. While your healthcare team contributes medical expertise, your contribution is equally important because you know yourself best. Planning ahead for appointments by writing out concerns and questions is helpful. Listen carefully during your appointments and be sure to take notes. If you are not sure what questions to ask, start with the three It’s Safe to Ask questions. You can also ask your healthcare provider for additional resources.

The best thing you can do to ensure your safety and feel comfortable is to be prepared. Remember, three ways to be prepared to engage in your healthcare are:

• know your rights as a patient
• understand your care and keep your own healthcare plan
• be active in conversations with your healthcare team

The most satisfied patients are informed and involved in their healthcare.

For more information about on how to advocate for yourself, please visit safetoask.ca and browse through the S.A.F.E. (Self-Advocacy For Everyone) Toolkit. You may also call 204-927-6477 or 1-866-927-6477 to receive specific information from the toolkit you are interested in. View our short video series on the toolkit topics here.


Learn to be safe!