Patient's/Resident's Rights

Patients and residents in our facilities are afforded all state and federal civil rights including rights under: 
Article 3 of North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 122C
Human Rights for Clients in State Facilities
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The Rehabilitation Act
The Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act

Advocates

Advocates are located in the state operated healthcare facilities and work to promote and protect the rights of the patients and residents living in the facilities. The Advocates conduct timely investigations when there are reports or suspicions of rights violations such as abuse, neglect or exploitation. If you have questions about the program or if you believe that we may be of assistance to you or your family member contact the Advocate indicated for your facility.  

Human Rights Committees

Each facility has a Human Rights Committee that works to protect the rights of the people being served by the facility. 

  • The Secretary of DHHS appoints Human Rights Committees. 
  • The Advocates support the mission of these Human Rights Committees by providing information related to the protection of patients'/residents' rights.
  • The Advocates are available to follow-up on any matters that are of concern to the Human Rights Committees.

If you have questions about the program or if you believe that we may be of assistance to you or your family member, contact the advocate indicated for your facility.

Concerns and Grievances

Anyone receiving services in one of our facilities has a right to express a concern or grievance without fear of retribution. A guardian, or anyone authorized to speak on behalf of the person who is directly receiving services, can bring concerns or grievances forward. You can contact an Advocate if you would like assistance with this process. 
Advocate Contact Information

Disability Rights of NC

Disability Rights North Carolina is a private non-profit organization that was designated by the Governor in 2007 to protect the rights of all state citizens with disabilities through individual advocacy and system change.

Contact Disability Rights of NC

Phone: 919-856-2195
Toll Free: 877-235-4210
Fax: 919-856-2244)

Physical Address
3724 National Drive, Suite 100
Raleigh, NC 27612

Learn more about Disability Rights in North Carolina

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