CLIENT HELP * Handbook - Developmental Services

1.

To receive services that are responsive to your age, gender, social supports, cultural orientation, psychological characteristics, sexual orientation, physical situations, and spiritual beliefs.

2.

To receive services in a setting that is free from physical or psychological abuse or exploitation.

3.

To receive ethical services as determined in the RMHS statement of professional Code of Conduct. A copy of these can be obtained from your case manager or other RMHS staff. In addition, if you are receiving services from a person licensed or certified by the State of Vermont, you will be given a copy of the Code of Ethics governing your clinician's profession.

4.

To receive services, rehabilitation, and/or educational services appropriate for your situation and according to commonly accepted professional standards.

5.

To exercise control over your own actions, decisions, wishes, and desires as any other person of comparable age. You will not be exposed to rules or regulations that are excessive or inappropriate.

6.

To be informed about the progress you are making on your goals.

7.

To have your record and all information about you kept confidential except where state law or court order requires that information to be released. Release of information will be in accordance with Rutland Mental Health Services' policy on privacy and confidentiality. This policy is available from your case manager.

8.

To privileged (confidential) communication with those who work with you. Information provided during evaluation, treatment, or service, may not be disclosed without your consent or appropriate court order, except in cases where a significant danger exists to yourself, others, or property. In addition, we are required by law to report any suspected abuse of a child, an elderly person, or mentally disabled adult.

9.

To meet with your treatment team at your request.

10.

To be free of unnecessary or excessive medication. If you agree to take medication, you have the right to have appropriate information on purpose, dose, side effects, and duration of medication so you can make an informed decision.

11.

To not be subjected to experimental research without your and/or your guardian's expressed and informed consent. If consent is given, either you or your guardian may withdraw at any time.

12.

To be informed of your rights and procedure for grievance and complaints in a manner that you are able to understand. You (or guardian if applicable) will acknowledge, in writing, your receipt of the rights information discussed in this pamphlet.

13.

To examine your bill.

14.

To assistance with access and referral to guardianship services, self-help groups, advocacy services, and legal advocacy services.

15.

To be free from aversive procedures, devices, and treatments.

16.

To privacy, dignity, confidentiality, and humane care.

17.

To associate with individuals of both genders.

18.

To communicate in private by mail and telephone.

19.

To communicate in one's primary language and primary mode of communication.

20.

To be free from retaliation for voicing a complaint, exercising rights, or recommending policy changes.

21.

To maintain family contact, except when contact is restricted by court order.

22.

To refuse or terminate services, except when services are required by court order.

23.

To read and to challenge information in one's records.