Patients share with physicians the responsibility for their own health care.
Patients should receive guidance from their physicians as to the optimal course of action. Patients are also en-titled to obtain copies or summaries of their medical records, to have their questions answered, to be advised of potential conflicts of interest that their physicians might have, and to receive independent professional opinions. The patient has the right to make decisions regarding the health care that is recommended by his or her physician. Accordingly, patients may accept or refuse any recommended medical treatment. The patient has the right to courtesy, respect, dignity, responsiveness, and timely attention to his or her needs.