Code of rights

Consumers using a health or disability service in New Zealand have the protection of a Code of Rights. All health care professionals providing health or disability services, whether regulated or non-regulated professions, are subject to the Code.

Health and Disability Commissioner (Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights) Regulations 1996 (Health and Disability Commissioner)
The Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers' Rights (the Code) establishes the rights of consumers, and the obligations and duties of providers to comply with the Code. It is a regulation under the Health and Disability Commissioner Act. The Code in full is set out on the HDC website.

Informed consent under the Code (Health Navigator)
Health care may only be provided if consumers make an informed choice and give informed consent. They have the right to say no to a proposed treatment/procedure or change their mind about wanting to go ahead with it.