As a client of the H-NNCSB, you have certain rights.

I. RIGHT TO NOTIFICATION

You must be informed of your rights every year while in the program. You have the right to see and get a copy of the State Regulations and the H-NNCSB policy and the Rules of Conduct upon request.

II. RIGHT TO TREATMENT

You have the right to participate in the development of the treatment plan designed especially for you. You cannot be denied services solely on the basis of your race, national origin, sex, sexual preference, age, religion, handicap, or ability to pay. If you think you have been discriminated against by this program, you can contact the Regional Advocate, or any program supervisor. Your ability to pay must be taken into account when fees for services are set. If you are unable to understand and make decisions about treatment, an "authorized representative" may be appointed to make decisions for you.

III. RIGHT TO CONFIDENTIALITY

Your records will be released only with your consent, the consent of your authorized representative, by court order, or as otherwise required or permitted by law. You have the right to inspect and to copy your records at your own expense, except where it would be harmful to you. In that situation, a lawyer, doctor or psychologist you choose can see the records on your behalf. If you feel there are mistakes in your record, you can ask to have them corrected, and if the program doesn't change what you think is an error, you can place your statement about the error in your record.

IV. RIGHT TO CONSENT

You or your authorized representative must give informed consent to a treatment or service which presents a "significant risk" - that is, one that might cause some injury or have a serious side effect.

V. RIGHT TO DIGNITY

You have the right to be called by your preferred or legal name, to be protected from abuse, and to request help in applying for services or benefits for which you are eligible. If you are in a residential program, you have the right to a safe, sanitary and humane environment; to the provision of suitable clothing if it is not otherwise available; to confidential mail and telephone communications; personal meetings with professionals or counselors assisting you; and to observe religious practices which do not conflict with the rights of others or with the law.

VI. RIGHT TO LEAST RESTRICTIVE ALTERNATIVE

Your personal or physical freedom can be limited when necessary for your safety, the safety of other clients, or for treatment. You will be involved in decisions to limit your freedom and you will be told what has to happen for the limits to be removed. Restrictions can be applied without notice in emergencies.

VII. RIGHT TO BE CONPENSATED FOR COMPENSABLE WORK

You have a right to be paid for work you do for the program which the law says is "compensable" work. Personal housekeeping and work which is done as part of treatment and is not done mainly for the purpose of making money for the program is not "compensable" work.

VIII. RIGHT TO RETAIN CERTAIN CIVIL AND LEGAL RIGHTS

You still keep your basic rights when you enter this program: including the right to enter into contracts; to register to vote; to marry or divorce; to make a will; to use the courts, etc.

IX. RIGHT TO HEARINGS AND APPEALS

You may file a complaint with any program supervisor if you believe any of your rights under the Community Regulations has been violated. You have the right to meet the program supervisor investigating the complaint, and you may appeal the decision of the program director to the Local Human Rights Committee (LHRC).

X. RIGHT TO ASSISTANCE BY REGIONAL ADVOCATE

You will be assisted in making, resolving or appealing complaints about rights violations by the local, and then the regional, state appointed advocate. You may call or write:

Local Advocate:

Michelle Iwaniw, MSW
Consumer and Family Affairs Coordinator
300 Medical Drive
Hampton, VA 23666
(757) 788-0300


Regional Advocate:

Mr. Reginald T. Daye
Human Rights Consultant
Regional Office of Human Rights
Eastern State Hospital
4601 Ironbound Road
Williamsburg, VA 23188-2648
(757)253-7061

Visit the Southeast Alliance Local Human Rights Committee website for additional Info

Last Updated on January 11, 2008 by HNNCSB

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