A patient is an individual who receives medical attention, care, or treatment. The term is not restricted by the severity of the illness or condition, the type of healthcare provider, or the location of the service.
Patients can range from those seeking:
Patients can be categorized as either inpatients or outpatients, depending on whether they require an overnight stay at a healthcare facility or receive care and return home the same day.
Patients are entitled to specific rights during their care and interactions with healthcare providers, encompassing the right to:
Patients are pivotal, serving multiple essential roles that go beyond merely receiving care. They are active decision-makers, working alongside healthcare providers to choose treatments that align with their personal values and needs. As a crucial source of information, patients supply vital details about their health history and symptoms, enabling precise diagnoses and tailored treatments. Additionally, by adhering to treatment plans, practicing preventive healthcare, and managing their conditions, patients become partners in their healthcare journey. This active participation is key to achieving optimal health outcomes, making the patient’s role fundamental in the delivery of effective, personalized, and patient-centered healthcare services.