In alignment with OhioMHAS and CARF Standards

I. Fundamental Rights of Clients

1. The right to consent to or refuse treatment.
   
2. The right to be involved in all aspects of their Individual Treatment Plan (ITP).
3. The right to receive services responsive to individual characteristics, needs, and abilities.
4. The right to review their own records, with clinical staff supervision.
5. The right to request and authorize the release of information.
6. The right to be free from physical, sexual, and psychological abuse, including harassment, punishment, humiliation, threats, exploitation, and fiduciary abuse.
7. The right to adequate and humane care.
8. The right to receive services in the least restrictive and most feasible environment.
9. The right to timely responses to requests for copies of their records.
10. The right to protection from behavioral disruptions of other clients.
11. The right to equal access to treatment, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or source of payment.
    

II. Informed Participation and Decision-Making

1. The right to receive information that facilitates informed decision-making.
   
2. The right to choose a therapist, case manager, or provider when possible.
3. The right to be informed of available services, costs, and treatment options, including alternatives and evidence-based practices.
4. The right to participate in the development, review, and revision of their ITP, and to receive a copy.
5. The right to be informed of any proposed seclusion, restraint, or special interventions, including the right to refuse hazardous or unusual procedures.
6. The right to consult independent treatment specialists or legal counsel at their own expense.
7. The right to confidentiality of communications and records, in accordance with state and federal laws.
8. The right to be informed in advance of termination or denial of services, and the reason(s) for such decisions.
9. The right to be observed only with informed consent, including by video, one-way mirrors, or recordings.
   

III. Grievances and Legal Protections

1. The right to be treated with dignity, autonomy, and privacy.
2. The right to appeal decisions and file grievances through internal or external review processes.
3. The right to exercise their rights without reprisal.
4. The right to receive oral and written instructions for the grievance process.
   

IV. Communication and Documentation of Rights

1. Upon admission, each client will be provided a written copy of client rights. Upon request, others may receive a copy of the policy.
   
2. Signed documentation confirming receipt of the rights is maintained in each client’s file.
3. A poster of client rights is displayed prominently in all service locations for visibility to clients and visitors.
4. In crisis or emergency situations, clients will be advised of their most relevant immediate rights.
   

V. Staff Training and Policy Oversight

1. The Client Rights Advocate will arrange annual mandatory staff training on client rights.
2. Hometown Recovery and Counseling regularly evaluates any restrictions on rights or privileges, with a documented purpose and clear process for reinstatement.
3. Clients are informed of the reason for any restriction which is documented, including the method for reinstatement.
4. Client rights are non-negotiable and cannot be revoked. Privileges, however, may be granted or revoked based on program compliance and treatment progress.
5. Hometown Recovery and Counseling is committed to always maintaining the dignity and safety of clients, including providing arrangements to support privacy.
   

VI. Research Participation

When clients participate in research, Hometown Recovery and Counseling:

1. Complies with all governmental and ethical standards.
   
2. Requires written informed consent.
3. Ensures clients understand they may cease participation without penalty.
4. Documents client consent regarding the use, release, and disposition of data.
   
5. Ensures confidentiality of participant information.
   

VII. Regulatory Compliance

1. Policies and procedures regarding client rights are aligned with applicable federal and state regulations. Compliance is demonstrated in clinical records, staff conduct, and the organizational code of ethics.
   

For Questions or Concerns About Your Rights:
Client Rights Advocate
Andrew Caudill, CNP, PMHNP-BC
Email Available on our Contact Page
You have the right to receive this statement in a language or format you understand.
Please ask a staff member if you need assistance.