Children's Rights St. Joseph's Hospital recognizes that all patients have rights and responsibilities. Our pediatric patients have unique and special rights. Children will not be subjected to any medical treatment without prior consent from a parent or legal guardian. The only exception to this is in the event of an emergency. In a life-threatening situation, treatment would begin immediately.
Children have the unique right to have their legal guardian serve as their advocate.
Children have the right during hospitalization to socialization appropriate to their age and medical condition. Children have the right to continue their educational endeavors while hospitalized. You have the right to voice your questions, concerns or complaints about your care in our hospital, and to know about resources such as social services, pastoral care, or ethic committees that can help you resolve your problems or answer questions about your hospital stay or care. You may do this without fear that it will compromise your care or future access to our services. If you have questions or feel that your rights may have been violated, we encourage you to contact St. Joseph's Hospital's Social Services, extension 3354.