Title 48 of the Louisiana Administrative Code states patients have “the right to be informed of the names and functions of all physicians and other health care professionals who are providing direct care to the patient.”

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Are hospital staff required to wear name tags by law?

No.

But state regulations require health care workers to identify themselves one way or another to those they treat.

Title 48 of the Louisiana Administrative Code lists nearly two dozen patients’ rights, including “the right to be informed of the names and functions of all physicians and other health care professionals who are providing direct care to the patient.”

To accomplish this, the regulations says, “these people shall identify themselves by introduction and/or by wearing a name tag.”

Other rights listed:

“The right to have a family member, chosen representative and/or his or her own physician notified promptly of admission to the hospital.”

“The right to receive treatment and medical services without discrimination based on race, age, religion, national origin, sex, sexual preferences, handicap, diagnosis, ability to pay or source of payment.”

“The right to be treated with consideration, respect and recognition of their individuality, including the need for privacy in treatment.”

“The right to receive, as soon as possible, the services of a translator or interpreter to facilitate communication between the patient and the hospital’s health care personnel.”

“The right to participate in the development and implementation of his/her plan of care.”

“Every patient or his or her representative (as allowed by state law) has the right to make informed decisions regarding his or her care.”

“The right to formulate advance directives and have hospital staff and practitioners who provide care in the hospital comply with these directives.”

“The right to have his/her medical records, including all computerized medical information, kept confidential.”

“The right to access information contained in his/her medical records within a reasonable time frame.”

“The right to be free from restraints of any form that are not medically necessary or are used as a means of coercion, discipline, convenience or retaliation by staff.”

“The right to be free from all forms of abuse and harassment.”

“The right to receive care in a safe setting.”

“The right to examine and receive an explanation of the patient’s hospital bill regardless of source of payment, and may receive upon request, information relating to financial assistance available through the hospital.”

Online: www.doa.la.gov/Pages/osr/lac/books.aspx.

 

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The Informer answers questions from readers each Sunday, Monday and Wednesday. It is researched and written by Andrew Perzo, an American Press staff writer. To ask a question, call 494-4098 and leave voice mail, or email informer@americanpress.com.