Pain Management Policy

ICHC clinical staff do not specialize in pain management. As a rule, ICHC does not prescribe narcotics or controlled substances. Your PCP will try to assist you until you can find a specialist for pain management. New patients should not expect to have narcotic or controlled substances prescribed.

Respect and Nondiscrimination

You have a right to considerate, respectful and nondiscriminatory care from ICHC providers and staff.

Complaints and Appeals/Grievance Policy

You have the right to a fair and quick review of any complaint you have against ICHC. This includes complaints about waiting times, operating hours, the conduct of our staff, and the health care facilities.

If you have a concern or complaint, please contact our Customer Service Representative at (360) 676-6177, ext. 3175.

Patient Dismissal Policy

ICHC providers expect and require cooperation from our patients. This cooperation is needed for adequate and safe health care. If a patient does not cooperate with the provider then another health care practice may better serve the patient.

A patient may be dismissed from ICHC if:

• The patient’s general behavior in the health center, or with the provider, is disruptive.
• The patient threatens or assaults any staff member, visitor or other patient.
• The patient forges prescriptions or gets prescriptions under false pretenses.
• The patient violates an agreed upon provider-patient care plan, or refuses to enter a care plan that is indicated for patient safety.

ICHC may determine that multiple no-shows and/or cancellations within 24 hours of your scheduled appointment are in violation of your care plan.

Generally, a patient will be notified before being dismissed from care. However, in the case of physical abuse, violation of a provider-patient medication contract, or forgery, the dismissal may occur without warning.

Understanding Health Care Information

You have the right to correct and easily understood information. If you speak another language, have a physical or mental disability, or just do not understand something, we will help you.

Confidentiality/Privacy Policy

You have the right to talk privately with health care providers. Your health care information is protected. ICHC will not share your record to others, unless you direct us to do so, or unless the law allows or makes us.

We do share your health information with other health care providers who are helping us with your care.

Seeing Your Records

You may see your record or get more information about it by making an appointment with your PCP. You may ask that your health care provider change your record if it is not accurate, relevant, or complete.

Getting a Copy of Your Records

For a fee, you may have a copy of your health record. It may take 2 weeks to get them copied.

You May Participate in Your Treatment Choices

You have the right to know your treatment choices. You may help decide about your care. If you cannot make your own decisions, parents, guardians, family members, or another individual that you designate can represent you.

To make your wishes clear, ICHC recommends you complete two important documents:

• An Advance Directive: A written statement that tells your medical providers and family how you want to be cared for if you cannot speak for yourself.
• A Durable Power of Attorney: A statement that authorizes the person you choose to make health care decisions for you, if you cannot.

Our customer service representative can give you information on these two types of documents.