Celebrated every year on July 10, World Law Day is commemorated with various events around the world to draw attention to the importance of justice and the rule of law. On this special day, not only the independence of the judiciary, freedom of expression and fundamental rights, but also the rights of individuals benefiting from healthcare services are brought back to the agenda. Because law comes to life not only in courtrooms but also in hospital corridors.
Every individual receiving healthcare services has the right to be treated in a manner befitting human dignity, as well as the right to be informed, to give consent, to protect privacy and to choose the healthcare service. However, public awareness of these rights is not yet at the desired level. Statements made on the occasion of World Law Day emphasized that patient rights are not only an ethical responsibility but also a legal obligation.
Violation of patient rights has become not only an individual but also a social problem. Especially in recent years, issues such as lack of information, interference with the right to choose a physician and non-protection of personal data stand out among the increasing number of complaints. It is stated that legal mechanisms should be strengthened, healthcare professionals should be regularly trained on this issue and citizens should be made aware.
World Law Day not only reminds us of the universal values of law, but also reaffirms that every individual has the right to access an equal and fair healthcare system. The protection and enforcement of patients' rights is one of the most concrete indicators of a democratic and just society.
