Patient Rights & Responsibilities

Taos Health Systems respects every patient’s rights and provides care with dignity, courtesy, and respect in accordance with CMS, federal, New Mexico, and DNV requirements. We encourage patients, families, and support people to be active partners in care.

Patient Rights:

You have the right to:

  • Respectful, dignified care that honors your privacy, values, and beliefs
  • Medically necessary care without discrimination
  • A safe environment free from abuse, neglect, or harassment
  • Be called by your chosen name
  • Know the names and roles of your care provider
  • Have a family member, support person, or physician notified of your admission
  • Have a support person present unless safety is compromised
  • Receive clear, understandable information about your condition and treatment
  • Give informed consent before non-emergency procedures
  • Have pain assessed and managed
  • Be free from restraints or seclusion unless medically necessary
  • Confidential care and access to your medical records
  • Interpreter services and communication aids at no cost
  • Make an advance directive and name a decision-maker
  • Participate in discharge planning and ongoing care decisions
  • Receive an explanation before transfer to another facility
  • Request an itemized hospital bill
  • Consent to or refuse recordings or photographs
  • Spiritual care services
  • Voice concerns or file complaints without fear of retaliation

Patient Responsibilities:

We ask patients, families, and support people to:

  • Follow hospital rules and safety guidelines
  • Not bring alcohol, tobacco products, weapons, or illegal substances
  • Treat staff, patients, and visitors with respect
  • Provide accurate medical and insurance information
  • Share advanced directives when available
  • Ask questions when information is unclear
  • Follow the care plan or notify staff if unable
  • Communicate concerns or unmet needs
  • Safeguard personal belongings
  • Keep appointments or notify providers if unable to attend
  • Follow hospital rules and safety guidelines

Questions, Concerns, or Ethical Issues:

Patient Advocate
575-751-5866 (8:00am–3:30pm, Mon–Thurs, 8:00am-12pm on Friday)

Director of Risk Management
575-751-5712 (8:00am–4:30pm, Mon–Fri)

House Shift Manager
575-613-2256 (Evenings, Nights, Weekends)

New Mexico Department of Health
1-800-752-8649