Interpreter
You are entitled to an interpreter, free of charge. Say in advance if you need one. It is usually possible to arrange an interpreter even in emergency situations, for example by telephone. An interpreter engaged by the healthcare services has a professional obligation of confidentiality. If you prefer to get interpreting help from a friend or relative you can do this too, but do not use children as interpreters. The task can be too difficult for them.
Be on time
It is important for you to arrive on time for your visit. If you are late there may not be time for the doctor or nurse to see you, but you will still have to pay. It may be a long time before you get a new appointment.
Cancelling an appointment
You must always call to cancel an appointment if you cannot come at the appointed time for your visit. If you do not cancel the appointment you will have to pay the charge, although you have not been there.
Confidentiality
Everyone who works in healthcare and medical services is obliged to treat information about patients as confidential. This means that the staff cannot, without your permission, tell anyone else the reason for your visit.
ID
When you visit the healthcare services you must always bring a photo ID document to identify yourself to the staff.
Record
In your medical record, the doctor writes what your illness is and what treatment you receive. You are entitled to read your medical record and you can get a copy of it on payment of a charge.
Travel expenses
You can get a refund for your travel costs for healthcare and medical or dental care. The county council pays primarily for expenses of bus and train travel, but in some cases also travel by private car or taxi. For a taxi journey to be approved for a refund, there must be a care provider’s certificate issued by a health professional. For car and taxi journeys, you pay part of the cost yourself.
More information about travel in connection with healthcare is available from the Medical Transport Unit, phone 020-65 01 01.
Comments on care
You are entitled to express your views and make complaints if you are not satisfied with the care or treatment you have received. You should first contact the care unit that you are dissatisfied with.
You can also contact the Patients’ Advisory Board on phone number 026-15 58 44, 15 58 58 or 15 58 04, or by email to pn@lg.se, or send a letter to Gävleborg County Council, Patients’ Advisory Committee, 801 88 Gävle.