All hospitals to display patents’ rights on site

From August all medical institutions should post patients’ rights and responsibilities on a wall or on LED panels inside their main building, the Ministry of Health and Welfare said Tuesday.

According to a relevant law revision that will come to effect from Aug. 2, rights and responsibilities should be exhibited on the walls of reception sections, emergency rooms and websites.

The patients have the right to be treated, notified and decide their own treatments; to have their personal information kept secret; and to be protected from harm. They are responsible for following medical personnel’s instructions; trusting and respecting them; and refraining from illegal practices.

Those who do not abide by the exhibition rules will be fined up to 1 million won, authorities said.