Charter of Patient Rights

At Aspiring Smiles Dental, we are committed to providing high-quality dental care in a safe, respectful, and supportive environment. Our Charter of Patient Rights aligns with the Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights (ACHR) and ensures that patients, carers, and families understand their rights when receiving dental care at our clinic.

• Every patient has the right to access quality dental care in a timely manner, based on their treatment needs and availability.
• We will strive to accommodate urgent dental needs as quickly as possible.
• If we cannot provide the necessary treatment, we will refer you to a suitable specialist

• We are committed to providing safe, evidence-based dental care in a hygienic and well-equipped environment.
• All treatments are performed by qualified dental professionals following strict infection control protocols.
• Patients are encouraged to provide accurate medical and dental history to ensure safe treatment.
• If an adverse event occurs, we will communicate openly, provide support, and take appropriate corrective measures.

• Every patient will be treated with dignity, kindness, and respect, regardless of their background, beliefs, gender, age, or health status.
• We expect all patients to treat our staff and other patients with respect and courtesy.

• Patients have the right to clear, transparent, and timely information regarding their dental condition and treatment options.
• Our dental team will explain procedures, potential risks, benefits, and costs before obtaining informed consent for treatment.
• Patients are encouraged to ask questions, seek clarification, and actively participate in treatment decisions.
• For complex treatment plans, we welcome the involvement of family members or carers in the decision-making process.

Before undergoing any treatment, patients will:

• Receive clear information about the proposed procedure, including its risks and benefits.
• Be informed of alternative treatment options and their associated risks.
• Have the opportunity to ask questions and receive answers to their satisfaction.
• Be given sufficient time to consider their options before making a decision.
• Provide either verbal or written consent, depending on the nature of the procedure.
• Have the right to withdraw consent at any time before treatment begins.

• We respect and uphold patient confidentiality in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).
• Personal and health information will only be collected, used, and shared as necessary for treatment and administrative purposes.
• Patient records will be securely stored and only accessed by authorised personnel.
• We will not disclose personal information to third parties without consent unless required by law.
• Our Patient Privacy Policy outlines how we handle and protect patient information.

• Patients have the right to a fair and transparent appointment scheduling system.
• We ask patients to attend scheduled appointments on time and provide at least 2 business days’ notice for cancellations.
• Failure to attend or cancel an appointment without adequate notice may result in a cancellation

• We welcome all patient feedback, whether positive or negative, as it helps us improve our services.
• Patients have the right to raise concerns or complaints about their treatment or experience at our clinic.
• Complaints can be made in writing, in person, or via email to our Practice Manager.
• All complaints will be addressed promptly and professionally in accordance with our internal complaint resolution process.
• If a complaint cannot be resolved internally, patients have the right to escalate concerns to relevant health authorities.

While we are committed to providing high-quality care, patients also have responsibilities, including:

• Providing accurate and complete medical and dental history.
• Following prescribed treatment plans and post-treatment care instructions.
• Respecting appointment times and clinic policies.
• Treating staff and other patients with courtesy and respect.

We periodically review and update our Charter of Patient Rights to align with best practices and legal requirements. Any updates will be made available on our website and at our clinic.

If you have any questions about your rights as a patient or wish to provide feedback, please contact us:

Aspiring Smiles Dental
1-5 Ashgrove Ave, Ashgrove QLD 4060, Australia
+61 7 3366 2805
reception@aspiringsmiles.com.au

By receiving care at Aspiring Smiles Dental, you acknowledge and accept the Charter of Patient Rights.