Consumer Rights

Your Rights


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
Consumer Rights

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 1-844-453-3802

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 East 15th Street
Merced, CA 95341

Resources



Patient's Rights Flyer

Folleto de Derechos de Pacientes

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