Dublin Dental University Hospital Patient Charter
As a patient, you have the right to expect a high standard of care and service. Our commitment is to treat you with respect, dignity, and professionalism, and to ensure that you receive the best possible care. This Patient Charter outlines your rights and responsibilities within our healthcare system.
Mutual Respect:
Care is provided at Dublin Dental University Hospital under the assumption that the patient/client will show mutual respect for all other patients and staff. In particular you are expected to:
- Show a mutual respect for Dental Team members and all Dublin Dental University Hospital staff and students
- Refrain from violent or offensive language and/or behaviour while at the Dublin Dental University Hospital
- Respect the rights, property, privacy and diversity of others
- Use our resources and facilities in a responsible manner
Your Rights:
- Right to Respect and Dignity:
You have the right to be treated with respect, compassion, and courtesy at all times. We will uphold your dignity in all aspects of your care. - Right to Information:
You have the right to receive clear and comprehensive information about your diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis in a way that is understandable to you. - Right to Privacy and Confidentiality:
Your personal and medical information will be kept confidential and shared only with those involved in your care, in accordance with applicable privacy laws. - Right to Access:
You have the right to access services in a timely manner, to the best of our ability in line with our available resources. If you require urgent care, you will be prioritised accordingly. - Right to Informed Consent:
You have the right to be involved in decisions about your care. You will be provided with all necessary information to make informed decisions about your treatment options. - Right to Safe and High-Quality Care:
You are entitled to receive safe and high-quality healthcare. We will take all necessary steps to minimise risks and ensure the best possible outcomes. - Right to Advocacy:
You have the right to involve a family member, friend, or advocate to support you in understanding your care and treatment decisions. - Right to Respect for Cultural and Religious Beliefs:
We will consider and try to respect your cultural, religious, and personal values when providing care. - Right to Continuity of Care:
You have the right to receive continuous and coordinated care throughout your treatment, including appropriate follow-up care. - Right to Raise Concerns:
You have the right to raise concerns, complaints, or suggestions about your care without fear of discrimination or retribution. We are committed to investigating any issues promptly and fairly.
Your Responsibilities:
- Providing Accurate Information:
You are responsible for providing accurate and complete information about your health, medical history, and medications to ensure proper treatment. - Being Actively Involved in Your Care:
You are encouraged to ask questions, express concerns, and take an active role in understanding your diagnosis and treatment plan. - Respecting the Rights of Others:
You are expected to treat healthcare providers, staff, and other patients with courtesy and respect. - Following Treatment Plans:
You are responsible for following the recommended treatment and care plans. If you are unable or unwilling to follow a plan, you should discuss alternatives with your healthcare provider. - Keeping Appointments:
You should make every effort to attend your scheduled appointments or notify us in advance if you need to reschedule or cancel. - Caring for Your Health and Well-being:
You are responsible for making healthy lifestyle choices that support your well-being and help manage your condition. - Respecting Healthcare Policies:
You are expected to follow the rules and guidelines of the healthcare facility, including those related to smoking, drug use, and visiting hours.
Teaching & Research Hospital:
- You are reminded that the Dublin Dental University Hospital is a teaching hospital and as such part or all of your treatment may be administered by student practitioners under supervision.
- Decisions on your suitability for treatment will only be made after initial assessment by an appropriate member of staff or student.
- You are also reminded that the Dublin Dental University Hospital is research intensive and should your treatment involve research based projects you will be advised of this in advance and your consent obtained. If you do not wish to participate in a study it will not affect treatment provided.
- In addition to research, the Hospital will from time to time audit its patient records as part of the clinical audit process. Clinical audit is a valuable part of the quality improvement process and can lead to service improvements for our patients. Access to your data for clinical audit is strictly controlled. All personal data is anonymised.
Commitment to Continuous Improvement:
We are dedicated to continuously improving our services and the care we provide. Your feedback is essential in helping us achieve this goal, and we encourage you to share your experience with us.
This Patient Charter is a guide to your rights and responsibilities, and we are committed to making sure that you receive the care, support, and respect you deserve throughout your healthcare journey.