Act 12/2001, of 21st December, on Health Management in Madrid Region - Articles 27 and 30


Citizens’ RIGHTS in relation to the health system

  • Citizens have the right to receive accurate, understandable information about their health, enabling them to make informed decisions for themselves. This right includes respect for their decision not to be informed.
  • Measures will be taken to safeguard citizens’ rights whenever they are in critical danger or incapable of making health-related decisions.
  • Current legislation guarantees citizens the right to privacy and confidentiality of their health information.
  • Patients have the right to be informed of the identity of their doctor or physician, who will provide all the information necessary for an informed decision and, when applicable, get consent for diagnostic, therapeutic, preventive or other procedures based on the patient’s health condition.
  • Patients have the right to know whether the procedure, diagnosis or therapy in question will be used in a teaching project or in clinical research before giving consent.
  • Patients have the right to request that their relatives, close friends, or other designated individuals receive all pertinent information and are authorised to provide consent on their behalf.
  • The right to information about one’s own health includes access to written information in medical records, results of complementary tests, discharge reports, medical certificates, and any other clinical document containing personal health information. The degree of confidentiality should be decided by the patient.
  • Citizens are entitled to receive clear, understandable information on their health risks, enabling them to take appropriate measures and cooperate with health authorities in managing these risks.
  • Citizens have the right to freely choose their physician and health centre and to receive a second opinion, as set out in legislation.
  • Citizens have the right to receive healthcare services within set, known time limits, as defined in law.

Citizens’ OBLIGATIONS when using the healthcare system

  • Adhere to health guidelines as apply to the general public, as well as any set by healthcare authorities.
  • Use the facilities properly to keep them clean and tidy at all times.
  • Ensure appropriate use of Healthcare System resources, particularly in relation to services, incapacity procedures and benefits.
  • Comply with the rules and procedures for using and accessing all rights granted in legislation.
  • Follow the rules in place in each centre, and respect all staff working there.
  • When declining any healthcare procedures, sign the relevant documents, which will clearly state that the patient has been duly informed and rejects the suggested procedure.