Guide provided
by
http://www.dmhc.ca.gov/
Health Care Rights in California
You Have the Right to Receive Care When You Need It
- To have an appointment when you need one.
- To have an appointment with a specialist when you need one.
- To have continuity of care if your doctor or medical group leaves your plan.
- To receive treatment for certain mental health conditions.
- To get a second doctor's opinion.
- To know why your plan denies a service or treatment.
You Have the Right to Understand Your Health Problems and Treatments
- To see a written diagnosis (description of your health problem).
- To give informed consent when you have a treatment.
You Have the Right to File a Complaint and Ask for an Independent Medical Review
- To file a complaint if you have a problem with your health plan.
- To ask for an Independent Medical Review of a decision your health plan makes about your care.
You Have the Right to Choose Your Own Doctor
- To choose a doctor in your health plan's network.
- To change to another doctor in the network if you are not satisfied with your doctor.
- To change your specialist or mental health care provider if you are not satisfied.
- To ask for a provider who speaks your language if you are not comfortable speaking English (in some cases the plan must provide an interpreter).
You Have the Right to See Your Medical Records
- To get a copy of your records (you may be charged for the copying).
- To add your own notes to your records.
- To keep your medical records private.
You Have the Right to Have an Advanced Directive
An Advanced Directive tells your doctor, family, and friends about the health care you want if you can no longer make decisions for yourself. It explains the types of special treatment you want or do not want. The state Attorney General's office has more information. Call 1-800-952-5225.
