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Patient Rights

Patient rights are the fundamental principles that ensure every individual seeking medical care is treated with respect, fairness, and dignity. These rights empower patients to make informed decisions about their health while fostering a relationship of trust between patients and healthcare providers. Recognizing and upholding these rights is crucial in promoting a patient-centered approach to healthcare.

Patient rights are central to WPA’s mission of amplifying the patient voice globally. They protect individuals from neglect, discrimination, and harm while fostering trust between patients and healthcare providers. Fully acknowledging these rights leads to better health outcomes, as patients feel valued and are more likely to engage in their care. Furthermore, respecting patient rights strengthens healthcare systems, making them more accountable, equitable, and responsive to patient needs.

For WPA, promoting patient rights is not just a legal or ethical obligation—it’s a moral commitment to ensuring every patient experiences a standard of care that prioritizes their well-being and humanity.

As the global voice of patients, WPA works tirelessly to promote the understanding and implementation of patient rights. By collaborating with healthcare providers, policymakers, and patient advocacy groups, WPA strives to create a world where patients are empowered to advocate for themselves and their communities. Together, we can build a healthcare system that respects, values, and protects every patient’s rights.

Patient Safety Rights Charter
WPA Webinar on WHO Patient Safety Rights Charter

WPA Patient Bill of Rights
Patient Safety Bill of Rights by World Patients Alliance


WMA Declaration of Helsinki
Ethical Principles for Medical Research Involving Human Participants

Why is it important to know your rights as a patient?
Article By Regina Kamoga and Cecilia Nantume Uganda Daily Express 29 March 2024
Patient Safety Rights Charter
Ugandan Patient Right and Responsibility Charter 2019



Know Your Patient Rights and Responsibilities
Article by Cecilia Nantume and Regina Kamoga Uganda Daily Express 16 May 2024


The European Charter pf Patient’ Rights
In 2002, ACN, together with organizations from 15 EU countries, established the European Charter of Patients’ Rights.
The Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union
The Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union lays down everyone’s fundamental rights in the EU.
Polish Patient's Rights
National Medical Institute of the Ministry of the Interior and Administration




WHO Patient safety rights charter
The Patient safety rights charter is a key resource intended to support the implementation of the Global Patient Safety Action Plan 2021–2030
WMA Declaration of Geneva: the Physician's Pledge
Adopted by the 2nd General Assembly of the World Medical Association, Geneva, Switzerland, September 1948


WMA Declaration of Lisbon
WMA Declaration of Lisbon on the Rights of the Patient





Videos

WPA video on Patient Rights

English

Videos

When you visit your doctor, how can you be sure you're receiving the right diagnosis?

English

Spanish

An introduction to Medication safety

English

Spanish

How many medications are too many?

English

Spanish

How do you talk to your healthcare provider?

English

Spanish

How do you raise concerns about a patient’s condition in the hospital?

English

Spanish