Conscious and Informed Patients? Insights into the Legal Consciousness of Patients’ Rights in Poland Cover Image

Conscious and Informed Patients? Insights into the Legal Consciousness of Patients’ Rights in Poland
Conscious and Informed Patients? Insights into the Legal Consciousness of Patients’ Rights in Poland

Author(s): Paulina Polak
Subject(s): Law, Constitution, Jurisprudence, Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Health and medicine and law, Sociology of Law
Published by: Instytut Stosowanych Nauk Społecznych Uniwersytetu Warszawskiego
Keywords: legal consciousness; legal awareness; patients’ rights; patients’ autonomy;

Summary/Abstract: This study reflects on the state of legal consciousness surrounding patients’ rights in Poland. Using a national survey, it investigates the level of knowledge, understanding, and awareness of patients’ rights in the Polish population, as well as their readiness to take action in cases of violation. In addition, it presents findings from a series of in-depth interviews conducted with patients’ rights lawyers to explore the motives and perspectives of patients and their families on legal action. Special focus is given to the role of patients in healthcare. Power relations, rights, emotions, and procedures form a complex framework that is at the root of both action and inaction. The concept of dignity and its place in the legal and social dimensions of healthcare is a primary trigger for possible action. Throughout the discussion, the issue of patient autonomy is raised.

  • Issue Year: 2023
  • Issue No: 36 (2)
  • Page Range: 93-124
  • Page Count: 32
  • Language: English
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