According to the national patient's rights charter every patient has the right to: 
1. A healthy and safe environment
2. Participation in decision-making
3. Access to health care services which include:
- Receiving timely emergency care
- Treatment and rehabilitation
- Provision for special needs
- Counselling
- Palliative care
- A positive disposition
- Health information
4. Knowledge of ones own health insurance / medical aid scheme
5. Choice of health services
6. Be treated by a named health care provider
7. Confidentiality and privacy
8. Informed consent
9. Refusal of treatment
10. Be referred for a second opinion
11. Continuity of care
12. Complain about health services