The purpose of this section is to improve patient care and outcomes by respecting every patient and maintaining ethical relationships with the public.

Ambulatory surgical facilities must:

1. (1) Adopt and implement policies and procedures that define each patient's right to:

   1. (a) Be treated and cared for with dignity and respect;
   2. (b) Confidentiality, privacy, security, complaint resolution, spiritual care, and communication. If communication restrictions are necessary for patient care and safety, the facility must document and explain the restrictions to the patient and family;
   3. (c) Be protected from abuse and neglect;
   4. (d) Access protective services;
   5. (e) Complain about their care and treatment without fear of retribution or denial of care;
   6. (f) Timely complaint resolution;

   7. (g) Be involved in all aspects of their care including:

      1. (i) Refusing care and treatment; and
      2. (ii) Resolving problems with care decisions.
   8. (h) Be informed of unanticipated outcomes according to RCW 70.230.150;
   9. (i) Be informed and agree to their care; and
   10. (j) Family input in care decisions, in compliance with existing legal directives of the patient or existing court-issued legal orders.
2. (2) Provide each patient a written statement of patient rights from subsection (1) of this section.

3. (3) Adopt and implement policies and procedures to address research, investigation, and clinical trials including:

   1. (a) How to authorize research;
   2. (b) Require staff to follow informed consent laws; and
   3. (c) Not hindering a patient's access to care if a patient refuses to participate.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 70.230 RCW. WSR 09-09-032, § 246-330-125, filed 4/7/09, effective 5/8/09.]