Consumers of Merced County's Behavioral Health and Recovery Services are entitled to:
Respectful and professional treatment by agency, clinic, and hospital staff members
Services provided in a safe environment
Informed consent to treatment, prescribed medications, and education on potential medication side effects
Participate in planning their treatment and receive a copy of the treatment plan
Consideration of concerns about treatment
Confidential care and record keeping
Request a change of provider
Request a second opinion for medical necessity
Request a change in level of care
Register a complaint and/or file a grievance regarding services
Request access to their medical records
Delegate a person to act in their behalf during the complaint, grievance, or State Fair Hearing process
Request a State Fair Hearing
Request and complete an Advance Directive
Treatment Plan
The treatment will involve each consumer in establishing their treatment goals and planning their care. This treatment planning tool is called the Treatment Plan. Your signature will demonstrate that you have participated in this plan.
Change of Provider
Consumers may request a second opinion regarding their care. They may also request a change of psychiatrist, clinician, or service provider. To request a change of provider, please access the link below. Change of Provider
Confidentiality
Behavioral Health and Recovery Services staff, contracted agencies, and providers follow legal procedures to honor the confidentiality of records. They are required to disclose confidential information if any of the following conditions exits:
You are a danger to yourself or others
You are a victim of child abuse or you are reporting abuse involving another child
Verbal, physical, or other intimidating expressions made to pose a threat or harm to another person
Questions
If you have questions about what information can be released with your consent, please contact the Compliance Officer at (209) 381-6810 or toll free at (844) 453-3802
Patient Rights Advocate
Patient's rights law is composed of a complex and evolving system of statues, regulations, and court decisions. The Patient's Rights Advocate will assist that all your rights are protected. If you believe that your rights may have been denied or violated, please contact your patient's rights advocate at:
300 E. 15th Street
Merced, CA 95341
(209) 381-6876
(800) 736-5809
