Your Rights & Responsibilities

Your Rights

Your Responsibilities

Getting care. You have the right to get the care that is covered by SCHIP in a timely way. You have the right to get an opinion from another doctor if you are not sure about your doctors treatment. You have the right to refuse treatment and be told what may happen if treatment is not received.

Being treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. You have the right to receive care without discrimination of any kind. You can get help with language, communication, or physical barriers you may face. This includes having written notices or information translated into the language you read, and getting help from a medical interpreter if you need it because you don't speak English or have difficulties with hearing or speaking. It also includes getting help with transportation or medical appointments if you need it.

Making complaints. You have the right to file a grievance or ask for a Fair Hearing at any time and get a timely answer.  You will not be discriminated against because you have complained.

Help your doctor give you the care you need. You must always bring your medical ID card to all appointments and you must always tell the provider that you are a SCHIP client. Help the doctor get copies of your previous medical records. Ask questions about anything you don't understand. Call your doctor when you go to an emergency room, and go back to your doctor for follow-up care after an emergency room visit.

Please be courteous about your appointments. Be sure to call the doctors office if you will miss an appointment, or will be late, so that other patients can use the time that was reserved for you.

Help keep your records up to date. Let your doctor and DSHS know if you have other medical insurance besides SCHIP. Call 1-800-562-3022 if you move or your family situation changes.

If you have problems: Let your doctor know if you are unhappy with the care you are getting.