Your Health, Your Rights: Understanding Your Options in Healthcare

Empowering underserved communities with the knowledge they need to access compassionate care.

Healthcare is a human right, not a privilege. Whether you’re insured, uninsured, experiencing homelessness, or simply navigating the complex medical system, it’s important to know that you have rights as a patient. Understanding these rights — and the options available to you — is the first step toward advocating for your health and securing the care you deserve.

At KCM Cares, a non-profit organization, we believe that healthcare should be accessible, equitable, and compassionate for all, especially for the most vulnerable members of our community. This guide is designed to help you understand your healthcare rights and explore available options for care.

What Are Your Rights as a Patient?

No matter your background, every individual engaging with the healthcare system has fundamental rights that protect their dignity, safety, and choice. Knowing these rights can help you make informed decisions and feel confident when seeking medical care.

Key Patient Rights You Should Know:

1. The Right to Informed Consent

You have the right to receive clear, understandable information about your diagnosis, treatment options, risks, and benefits — and to make your own decisions about your care. No procedure or treatment should be performed without your knowledge and consent.

Example: Before undergoing surgery, your healthcare provider should explain the procedure, alternatives, and potential risks, allowing you to make an informed choice.

2. The Right to Privacy and Confidentiality

Your medical information must be kept private. Healthcare providers are required by law to protect your health records and share them only with authorized individuals.

Example: Clinics cannot share your test results or personal health details without your permission.

3. The Right to Access Your Medical Records

You have the right to request and review your medical records at any time. This helps you stay informed about your health and treatment history.

Example: If you are moving or changing doctors, you can request copies of your medical records to ensure continuity of care.

4. The Right to Non-Discrimination

Healthcare providers are obligated to treat all patients with respect, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, immigration status, or income level.

Example: No one should be denied care because they are uninsured, unhoused, or from a marginalized background.

5. The Right to Voice Complaints

If you feel your rights have been violated or you are not receiving appropriate care, you have the right to speak up and file a complaint without fear of retaliation.

Barriers to Healthcare Access for Vulnerable Populations

For many individuals, knowing their rights is only part of the challenge. Access to healthcare options remains limited for vulnerable communities due to several obstacles, including:

• Lack of insurance or underinsurance
• Transportation issues
• Language barriers
• Fear of discrimination or mistreatment
• Limited availability of affordable care providers

These challenges can make it difficult for people to receive timely medical attention, leading to untreated health conditions and worsening outcomes.

Exploring Your Healthcare Options: Where to Turn for Help

Even without insurance, there are healthcare resources available that are designed to help underserved communities receive the care they need.

Healthcare Options for Underserved Communities:

• Community Health Centers: Offer sliding-scale fees based on income and provide primary care services.
• Free Clinics: Provide basic healthcare services at no cost to uninsured individuals.
• Mobile Health Units: Bring care directly to communities that might otherwise face barriers in accessing services.
• Non-Profit Organizations: Programs like KCM Cares work specifically to close healthcare gaps and ensure that no one is left behind.

How KCM Cares Supports Healthcare Equity

At KCM Cares, we are committed to transforming the healthcare landscape for vulnerable and marginalized individuals in Silver Spring. KCM Cares, founded by Dr. Kathryn Kelly, a Board-Certified Internal Medicine Physician with over a decade of experience, is dedicated to turning the vision of healthcare equity into a meaningful reality.

Our mission includes:

• Providing compassionate, high-quality care to those experiencing homelessness and other underserved groups.
• Promoting healthcare access through mobile units and partnerships with community organizations.
• Empowering communities through health education, helping individuals make informed decisions about their care.
• Supporting diversity in healthcare by empowering physicians of color and promoting cultural competence in care delivery.

We believe that education is empowerment. Understanding your rights helps you advocate for yourself and navigate the healthcare system more confidently.

Taking the Next Step: How to Get Help and Support KCM Cares

If you or someone you know is struggling to access healthcare, KCM Cares is here to help. We provide resources, support, and compassionate care to underserved communities throughout Silver Spring and the greater Washington, D.C. area.

Your support helps us continue this mission. Whether through spreading the word, volunteering, or donating, you can help ensure that everyone has access to the care they deserve.

Contact KCM Cares Today:

• Email: info@kcmcares.org
• Phone: (240) 965-0229
• Fax: (240) 965-0052
• Website: https://www.kcmcares.org/

Learn more about our programs, meet our dedicated team, and see how we are working toward healthcare equity for all.

Support KCM Cares — Help Us Make a Difference

At KCM Cares, we rely on the generosity of donors and community partners to continue our work. Your contribution directly supports our efforts to provide equitable healthcare access for vulnerable populations. Donate today and be a part of the movement toward healthcare equity. Together, we can create a future where everyone’s health is respected, protected, and prioritized.