Rule 15-16-1-46.31.1 - General The agency shall maintain written policies and procedures regarding the rights and responsibilities of patients. Written policies regarding patients' rights shall be made available to patients and/or their guardian, next of kin, sponsoring agency or agencies, or lawful representative and to the public. There shall be documented evidence that the staff of the agency is trained and involved in the implementation of these policies and procedures. In-service on patient's rights and responsibilities shall be conducted annually. The patients' rights policies and procedures ensure that each patient admitted to the agency:
1. Is fully informed, as evidenced by the patient's written acknowledgment, prior to or at the time of admission, of these rights and of all rules and regulations governing patient conduct and responsibilities;2. Is fully informed prior to or at the time of admission and during the course of treatment of services available through the agency, and of related charges including any charges for services not covered under titles XVIII or XIX of the Social Security Act, or any other third party.3. Is afforded the opportunity to participate in the planning of his medical treatment and to refuse to participate in experimental research;4. Is transferred or discharged only for medical reasons, or for his welfare, or for non-payment (except as prohibited by Titles XVIII or XIX of the Social Security Act), or on the event of an unsafe environment, or should the patient refuse treatment, and is given advance notice to ensure orderly transfer to discharge, and such actions are documented in his clinical record;5. May voice grievances and recommend changes in policies and services to agency staff and/or to outside representatives of his choice, free from restraint, interference, coercion, discrimination, or reprisal;6. Is assured confidential treatment of his personal and clinical records, and may approve or refuse their release to any individual outside the agency, except, in case of his transfer to another health care institution or agency or as required by law or third-party payment contract;7. Is treated with consideration, respect, and full recognition of his dignity and individuality, including privacy in treatment and in care of his personal needs;8. No person shall be refused service because of age, race, religious preference, sex, marital status or national origin.15 Miss. Code. R. § 16-1-46.31.1
Miss. Code Ann. § 41-71-13