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ARIZONA STATE SENATE
Fifty-Seventh Legislature, First Regular Session
AMENDED
patient rights; health care services
Purpose
Grants patients specified rights when receiving care from a healthcare professional.
Background
Under the rules of the Department of Health Services, health care patients have the right: 1) not to be discriminated against based on race, national origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, marital status, or diagnosis; 2) to receive treatment that supports and respects the patient’s individuality, choices, strengths, and abilities; 3) to receive privacy in treatment and care for personal needs; 4) to review, upon written request, the patient’s own medical records; 5) to receive a referral to another health care institution if the outpatient surgical center is not authorized or not able to provide physical health services needed by the patient; 6) to participate, or have the patient’s representative participate, in the development of or decisions concerning treatment; 7) to participate or refuse to participate in research or experimental treatment; and 8) to receive assistance from a family member, a patient’s representative, or other individual in understanding, protecting, or exercising the patient’s rights (A.A.C. R9-10-212).
In statute, health professionals includes podiatrists, chiropractors, dentists, medical physicians and surgeons, naturopathic physicians, nurses, dispensing opticians, optometrists, osteopathic physicians and surgeons, pharmacists, physical therapists, psychologists, veterinarians, physician assistants, radiologic technologists, homeopathic physicians, behavioral health professionals, occupational therapists, respiratory therapists, acupuncturists, athletic trainers, massage therapists, nursing care institution administrators, assisted living facilities managers, midwifes, audiologists and speech pathologists (A.R.S. § 32-3201).
There is no anticipated fiscal impact to the state General Fund associated with this legislation.
Provisions
1. Grants patients the right to receive healthcare services from a health professional who:
a) only acts in the patient's best interest;
b) does no harm; and
c) except in emergency, ensures each decision has been obtained with informed consent.
2. Defines terms.
3. Becomes effective on the general effective date.
Amendments Adopted by Committee
· Makes technical changes.
Senate Action
HHS 2/19/25 DPA 4-1-2
Prepared by Senate Research
February 21, 2025
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