When you use a health or disability service in New Zealand, you have the protection of a Code of Rights. The Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights provides 10 rights. Your sixth right (6) is…
Right to be fully informed
(1) Every consumer has the right to the information that a reasonable consumer, in that consumer’s circumstances, would expect to receive, including—
(a) an explanation of his or her condition; and
(b) an explanation of the options available, including an assessment of the expected risks, side effects, benefits, and costs of each option; and
(c) advice of the estimated time within which the services will be provided; and
(d) notification of any proposed participation in teaching or research, including whether the research requires and has received ethical approval; and
(e) any other information required by legal, professional, ethical, and other relevant standards; and
(f) the results of tests; and
(g) the results of procedures.
(2) Before making a choice or giving consent, every consumer has the right to the information that a reasonable consumer, in that consumer’s circumstances, needs to make an informed choice or give informed consent.
(3) Every consumer has the right to honest and accurate answers to questions relating to services, including questions about—
(a) the identity and qualifications of the provider; and
(b) the recommendation of the provider; and
(c) how to obtain an opinion from another provider; and
(d) the results of research.
(4) Every consumer has the right to receive, on request, a written summary of information provided.
The full Code of Rights is available on the Health and Disability Commissioners website: