Ethics and Patient Rights

Ethics and Patient Rights

We are pleased to provide access through our site to information which may be of assistance to patients in planning for care at the end of life. 

Patient Rights and Responsibilities
Each patient has legal rights and responsibilities while in the hospital. Plus, read Lifespan's joint privacy policy.

Patient Safety Tips
Safety tips for patients and visitors and families.

Ethics Committee

The hospital's Ethics Committee offers guidance and support to patients, families and caregivers in difficult decision making situations.

Advance Directives

An overview of advance directives and their importance in directing your care.

Comparing Your Legal Options

Living will or durable power of attorney? Here are the differences in a nutshell. 

Living Will

General information about Rhode Island's Rights of the Terminally Ill Act, instructions for creating a living will and a sample form.

Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care

Information about durable power of attorney for health care, its advantages and limitations, how to create one and how to get a printed version of Rhode Island's form.

End of Life Care

An overview of end-of-life care options.

Related Links

Online resources and more information.