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