Health & Disability Services Consumers' Rights

Key points about your rights when using health and disability services

• when you use a health or disability service, you have rights
• all people in Aotearoa New Zealand have these rights
• if you are not happy with a health and disability service you receive, you have the right to complain

What are my rights when using health and disability services?

When you use a health or disability service in Aotearoa New Zealand, you have the protection of a Code of Rights. The Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers' Rights provides 10 rights.

Right 1 - The right to be treated with respect.

Right 2 - The right to freedom from discrimination, coercion, harassment, and exploitation.

Right 3 - The right to dignity and independence.

Right 4 - The right to services of an appropriate standard.

Right 5 - The right to effective communication.

Right 6 - The right to be fully informed.

Right 7 - The right to make an informed choice and give informed consent.

Right 8 - The right to support.

Right 9 - Rights in respect of teaching or research.

Right 10 - The right to complain.

Listen to, or read your rights in different languages at the Health and Disability Commissioner website

See the Health and Disability Commissioner website to find out more about your rights

What can I do if I'm not happy with a health and disability service I receive?

You can get help from an advocate to resolve your complaint directly with the person or organisation you are unhappy with. Or, they can help you make a complaint to HDC. 

This service is free of charge.

Check the Advocacy Service website or call 0800 555 050. 

Find out more on KidsHealth about meeting your child or young person's needs

There are a set of principles which describe how healthcare providers should meet your child or young person's particular needs.

Check KidsHealth for more information about how healthcare providers should meet your child or young person's particular needs