Washington State University’s WSU Health recognizes that the health and well-being of patients depend on a collaborative effort between patients and WSU Health’s medical service providers. Patients have both rights and responsibilities when they interact with WSU Health staff at WSU Health clinics, which are described below.
As a Patient, You Have the Right To
- Timely access to medical care.
- Be treated with dignity and respect by each WSU Health staff member.
- Medical care that is free from discrimination on the basis of age, sex*, race, ethnicity, national origin, language, disease, disability, or religion.
- Easy-to-understand information about your diagnosis and treatment options from your WSU Health medical service provider.
- Ask your WSU Health medical service provider questions so that you can make informed decisions about your health.
- Request the professional qualifications of the primary WSU Health medical service provider rendering care.
- Communicate confidentially with your WSU Health medical service provider.
- Privacy and confidentiality as outlined in the Notice of Privacy Practices (available at your WSU Health clinic site).
- Withdraw your consent, delay, or otherwise refuse examination, intervention, or treatment.
- Continuity of care. If, for any reason, you decide to seek care elsewhere, your WSU Health medical service provider will work to coordinate your care in accordance with your wishes.
- Review and request amendments to your medical records.
- Patients have the right to report concerns or complaints by calling the Compliance Hotline at any time, without fear of retaliation, at 1-855-252-7606 or www.hotline-services.com
As a Patient, You Have a Responsibility To
- Conduct all your interactions with WSU Health staff members, other patients, and visitors in a respectful and polite manner. Verbal or physical intimidation, violence, or the threat of violence towards anyone will not be tolerated and will be reported to the appropriate authorities.
- Be honest and forthcoming with your WSU Health medical service provider about the symptoms you are experiencing.
- Provide as complete a medical history as you can, which includes details and information about past illnesses, medications, hospitalizations, and other matters related to current health.
- Cooperate with agreed-upon treatment plans.
- Coordinate routine medical care and delivery of needed medications if you accept an assignment at a post where such care or medication may not be available.
- Fulfill financial responsibilities that are incurred when seeking medical care.
- Understand that WSU Health clinics operate in a manner intended to protect patient safety, safeguard confidentiality, and reduce the risk of medical errors. WSU Health clinics adhere to established business hours, observe standard operating procedures, and provide care consistent with WSU Health clinic capabilities and available resources.
*As defined by current U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission policy
(Rev. 12/2025)