Martinez♥
Heart & Home Care

♥
Compassion in Our Hearts. Care in Your Home.

Client Rights & Responsibilities

🔒 Your Rights Matter to Us Martinez Heart & Home Care is committed to providing care that respects the dignity, privacy, and individuality of every client. As a client of our agency, you have the following rights and responsibilities. Please read this document carefully and keep a copy for your records.
👤

Your Rights as a Client

🔒

Right to Privacy & Dignity

You have the right to privacy in your home and in all aspects of your care. You will be treated with respect, dignity, and consideration at all times, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic.

📄

Right to Information

You have the right to receive complete and accurate information about your care plan, the services provided, the qualifications of your caregivers, and the agency's policies and procedures in a language and manner you understand.

✅

Right to Participate in Care Planning

You have the right to participate in the development and revision of your care plan. Your preferences, goals, and concerns will be considered in all care decisions. You may refuse any service or treatment without fear of retaliation.

🚫

Right to Refuse Services

You have the right to refuse any service, treatment, or caregiver assignment. You will be informed of the potential consequences of refusing care, and your decision will be respected and documented.

💬

Right to Voice Grievances

You have the right to voice complaints or grievances about your care or services without fear of discrimination or retaliation. All complaints will be investigated promptly and you will be informed of the outcome.

👤

Right to Choose Your Caregiver

You have the right to request a change of caregiver if you are uncomfortable or dissatisfied. While we cannot guarantee all requests, we will make every reasonable effort to accommodate your preferences.

📋

Right to Confidentiality

All information about your health, personal life, and care is strictly confidential. Your records will not be shared without your written consent, except as required by law or for treatment, payment, and operations as described in our HIPAA Notice.

💰

Right to Financial Information

You have the right to receive a clear explanation of all charges and fees before services begin, and to receive itemized billing statements. You will be notified in writing of any rate changes at least 30 days in advance.

🔒

Right to Be Free from Abuse & Neglect

You have the right to be free from physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Any suspected abuse will be reported to the appropriate authorities immediately.

📞

Right to Contact Outside Agencies

You have the right to contact any outside agency, including the Washington State Department of Health, Adult Protective Services, or the Long-Term Care Ombudsman, without interference from Martinez Heart & Home Care.

📄

Right to Access Your Records

You have the right to inspect and obtain copies of your care records maintained by Martinez Heart & Home Care, subject to applicable law. Requests will be fulfilled within a reasonable timeframe.

🏠

Right to Continuity of Care

You have the right to receive consistent, uninterrupted care. If services must be discontinued, you will receive reasonable advance notice and assistance in arranging alternative care.

⚖️

Your Responsibilities as a Client

🏠 Safe Environment

  • Provide a safe, clean, and respectful working environment for caregivers
  • Notify the agency of any hazards or safety concerns in the home
  • Ensure pets are secured during caregiver visits if requested

📋 Accurate Information

  • Provide accurate and complete health and medical information
  • Notify the agency promptly of any changes in health status or care needs
  • Inform caregivers of any allergies, medications, or special conditions

💰 Financial Obligations

  • Pay all invoices in a timely manner per the service agreement
  • Notify the agency of any billing concerns or disputes promptly
  • Not request caregivers to handle personal finances without authorization

👥 Respectful Treatment

  • Treat all caregivers and agency staff with dignity and respect
  • Not engage in discriminatory, abusive, or harassing behavior
  • Not request caregivers to perform tasks outside their authorized scope

📅 Scheduling

  • Provide at least 24 hours notice for cancellations or schedule changes
  • Be available or have a responsible party present at scheduled care times
  • Notify the agency if you will be away or hospitalized

💬 Communication

  • Communicate concerns or dissatisfaction directly to the agency
  • Not attempt to hire agency caregivers directly
  • Participate actively in care planning and goal-setting
💬

How to Exercise Your Rights or File a Complaint

If you believe your rights have been violated or you have a concern about your care, please contact us immediately:

Martinez Heart & Home Care

📞 360.296.2671  |  ✉ mariaritchie1980@outlook.com

You may also contact the following external agencies:

  • Washington State Department of Health: 1-800-633-6828
  • Adult Protective Services: 1-877-734-6277
  • Long-Term Care Ombudsman: 1-800-562-6028

Acknowledgment of Client Rights & Responsibilities

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have received, read, and understand my rights and responsibilities as a client of Martinez Heart & Home Care. I understand that a copy of this document is available to me at any time upon request.