🔖 Archived Resource (2001): This guide was published in 2001 and is not current. It is preserved here for historical and general reference by Consumer Watchdog. Laws may have changed — consult a qualified attorney for current legal advice.
Table of Contents

Introduction

  1. Your Rights to Continuous Care, Second Opinions, Referrals and Information



  2. Your Right to Informed Consent


  3. Your Rights to Medical Records and Confidentiality


  4. Your Right to Emergency Medical Care


  5. Your Rights to Coverage of Pre-Existing Conditions


  6. Your Rights to File Grievances with your Health Plan and the Department of Managed Health Care


  7. Your Rights to Have your HMO's Decisions Independently Reviewed and to Sue Your HMO


  8. Your Rights to Appeal and Litigate Benefit Denials Under ERISA


  9. Health Care Coverage Options


Appendix A: Department of Managed Health Care's Consumer Complaint Form

Appendix B: Vital Steps to Receiving the Health Care You Need-A Checklist

Appendix C: Sample Letter

Appendix D: Strategic Advice For Patients: Tactics to Use and Understand

Appendix E: Useful Code Sections of the California Knox-Keene Health Care Service Plan Act of 1975 and Regulations

Glossary

Acknowledgements