Patient rights and responsibilities at appointments

We follow the Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights developed by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Healthcare. The Charter sets out how a client can expect to be treated at a health facility and is available in:

• all Oral Health Tasmania clinics
• audio, Braille and in 17 languages – find out more

What are my rights?

You have the right to:

• a welcoming, friendly and professional service
• be treated with respect
• receive information that is easy to understand and helpful
• be given clear information about your dental situation your treatment options the recommended treatment the reasons we may not be able to provide you with certain treatment the risks involved in having or not having treatment any costs and how you can pay them
• ask questions about your dental health and treatment
• a second opinion
• decide whether to go ahead with the treatment
• give or not give your consent to treatment at any time
• have a family member, friend, carer or advocate/support person with you
• an independent, professional interpreter if required
• have your personal health information treated confidentially.

What are my responsibilities?

You have a responsibility to:

• keep appointments and be on time
• let us know if you are unable to attend
• provide up to date information about your medical and dental history so that we can give you the best and safest treatment
• ask questions so that you feel confident in making decisions about your care
• tell us of your needs in a polite way
• follow any aftercare advice and let us know if you have any problems after your treatment
• pay any costs that apply for your treatment
• let us know if you are worried, unsure or unhappy about any part of our service to you.

Why do we ask you who you are?

• We need to make sure that the correct dental care is provided to the correct patient.

To do this we ask:

• What is your name?
• What is your date of birth?
• What is your address?

Providing feedback to us

We welcome all feedback. It gives us an opportunity to improve and helps us to provide you with a safe and high-quality service.

If you would like to provide feedback, you can:

• speak with the staff at your clinic
• phone or write directly to your local clinic
• complete the Department of Health's online feedback form
• ask for a feedback form at one of our clinics.

Do you need help with giving us your feedback?

If you feel that you can’t explain your ideas or concerns, or you need some help to deal with an issue, talk with the clinic staff who can assist you. If needed, they can get an interpreter for you.