Ōu mōtika i a koe e whiwhi ratonga hauora, ratonga hauā rānei Your rights using a health or disability service

When you use a health or disability service, your rights are protected by the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights.

On this page

Understand your rights

Your rights under the code include the right to:

receive the information you need to make decisions about your health and about any tests, procedures or treatments
have information provided in a way that you understand
make an informed choice and give your informed consent before you undergo a test, procedure or treatment
be treated with respect and dignity, taking into account your cultural needs and values
have a support person with you, at most times
have services be provided with reasonable care and skill
complain about a provider, in a way that is appropriate for you.

All these rights also apply if you take part — or are asked to take part — in teaching or research.

The Health and Disability Commissioner website has more information on your rights in many languages.