Being a good patient means more than just sticking your tongue out and saying "ah." As a patient, you should have an active interest in your care and treatment, and you should also work to understand and protect your rights. Here are some tips in getting an "A" for being a good patient.

Understand Your Rights

• You have the right to "fire" your physicians. If you do not like the way your physicians treat you, if you do not trust them, or if you do not believe they are providing you with the best possible care, you can leave.

• You have the right to take an active interest in your care and treatment. Ask any question of your physician that you feel is important to you. Do not get hung up on the idea that it is a "stupid" question. If you are curious about it, then you have the right to ask and receive an honest answer.

• You have the right to be told about alternative courses of treatment, even if your health insurance may not cover them or you may not be able to afford them. If you find that your physician is saying things like "well, there is another option, but you probably can't afford it," put an end to the practice by stating clearly and plainly that you are aware of your right to be told of all possible options whether or not you may be able to pay for them.

• You have the right to refuse consent for any procedure or treatment. If you refuse consent, you may be asked to read and sign a form indicating that refusal.

• You have the right to leave the hospital or care facility against medical advice. You will be likely have to sign a waiver form indicating that you are doing so on your own free will and against the recommendations of your medical providers.

• You have the right, if you are asked to participate in a medical or drug trial, to ask specific questions regarding the purpose of the trial, the potential risks of the trial, the benefits which you may receive, payments to which you may be entitled, and measures taken to protect your privacy.

• You have the right to be treated with dignity and respect in all matters related to your health.