*** Expect high quality care and proper complete
responses to your needs.
*** You are entitled to courtesy at all times.
*** Your doctor should relate to you as an adult partner during treatment, not
as a child.
*** Expect no less than the time needed for your particular problem.
*** You should have his undivided attention.
*** A receptionist should not decide how much time you get from the doctor.
*** He must hear you and listen; ask him to explain until you understand.
*** You have a right to choices.
*** Ask about the alternatives of treatments.
*** Ask about the benefits of each and the risks you will take.
*** A frequent alternative may well be "no treatment at all."
*** You should expect your doctor to keep informed, up-to-date, or refer you.
*** You should expect him to investigate, consult or research on your behalf.
*** A second opinion should be one that searches for accurate diagnoses; not
rubber stamp.
*** Have your doctor help you find the "one who knows"; not simply to affirm
his diagnosis.
*** If you are to have elective surgery, you must have "days" to think and
decide.
*** Your doctor should respond promptly when he is needed.
*** Do not assume that "you've got it again", nor let him do so. It could be
something new.
Mental Health Patient Bill of Rights
You have the right to:
Request and receive full information about the therapist's professional capabilities, including licensure, education, training, experience, professional association membership, specialization, and limitations.
Have written information about fees, method of payment, insurance reimbursement, number of sessions, substitutions (in cases of vacation and emergencies), and cancellation policies before beginning therapy.
Receive respectful treatment that will be helpful to you.
A safe environment, free from sexual, physical, and emotional abuse.
Ask questions about your therapy.
Refuse to answer any question or disclose any information you choose not to reveal.
Request that the therapist inform you of your progress.
Know the limits of confidentiality and the circumstances in which a therapist is legally required to disclose information to others.
Refuse a particular type of treatment or end treatment without obligation or harassment.
Refuse electronic recording (but you may request it if you wish).
Request and (in most cases) receive a summary of your file, including the diagnosis, your progress, and type of treatment
Report unethical and illegal behavior by a therapist.
Receive a second opinion at any time about your therapy or therapist's methods.
Request the transfer of a copy of your file to any therapist or agency you choose.
Source: California Department of Consumer Affairs
These are couple of examples of "Patient Bill of Rights" that you can find on the web and from patient advocate originations. Please use these as a starting point for your research.