What rights do competent adults have regarding EMS care?

Competent adults have the right to consent to or refuse assessment, treatment, and transport when interacting with EMS. This principle is grounded in the concept of patient autonomy, which asserts that individuals have the right to make informed decisions about their own healthcare. This includes the ability to accept or decline medical interventions and the right to understand the potential risks and benefits involved in their care.

When a patient is deemed competent, they can communicate their wishes regarding the care they receive. This means that if a patient chooses to refuse care, EMS must respect that decision, provided the patient understands the consequences of their refusal. This core value of respecting patient autonomy is crucial in emergency medical services to ensure that individuals retain control over their health and treatment options.

In contrast, involvement in the billing process, choosing an ambulance service, or requesting a specific paramedic do not directly pertain to the essential rights related to medical care and decision-making in emergencies.