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Your Role in the Consumer Bill of Rights (Article 8) |
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As a health care provider, and more importantly as a TRICARE provider, it’s essential that you understand and comply with the federal government’s Consumer Bill of Rights and Responsibilities.
The purpose of the Bill is to:
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- Build consumer confidence in the health care system by facilitating ways consumers can actively participate;
- Support the importance of a good relationship between health care providers and patients; and
- Support consumers’ role in improving their health by providing them with rights and responsibilities.
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For your convenience, here is a review of three Bill of Rights chapters that are of utmost importance to TRICARE providers: Information Disclosure; Participation in Treatment Decisions; and Respect and Nondiscrimination. |
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Information Disclosure |
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Although it is the responsibility of Humana Military to educate TRICARE beneficiaries about TRICARE benefits, it is also important for providers to assist beneficiaries by sharing accurate information. Note: If consumers are not fluent in English or if they have a mental or physical disability, providers should make reasonable accommodations so they can make informed health care decisions. |
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Participation in Treatment Decisions |
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As a provider, you probably know that patient participation in treatment decisions often leads to better treatment as well as higher patient satisfaction. However, sometimes patients have to make vital decisions when they are not in optimal condition to do so. You can help these patients by clearly explaining all treatment options and the associated risks, benefits and consequences of each option—as well as the alternative of no treatment. In cases where the patient is unable to make an informed decision, a parent, guardian or designated representative can make the decision for them.
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Respect and Nondiscrimination |
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A good relationship between you and the patient is based on mutual respect. Consumers have the right to considerate, respectful and nondiscriminatory care from their doctors, health plan representatives and other health care providers.
For more information on the Consumer Bill of Rights and Responsibilities, visit the Consumer Protection and Quality in the Health Care Industry Web site.
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Contacts (Article 9) |
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Updated: April 7, 2008
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