What fundamental right does the Health and Disability Commissioner Act promote?

The Health and Disability Commissioner Act is primarily designed to promote the right to consumer choice and consent. This foundational principle emphasizes that individuals have the autonomy to make informed decisions about their healthcare and treatment options. It ensures that consumers are provided with adequate information to understand the services offered and the potential risks and benefits involved, allowing them to give informed consent before any treatment is administered.

This right is crucial in the healthcare context as it empowers patients to actively participate in their own care, ensuring that they are respected as individuals with unique needs and preferences. The Act establishes a framework for safeguarding these choices, which includes the right to refuse or accept treatment based on comprehensive information.

While the other options may touch on aspects of healthcare rights, they do not encapsulate the core intent of the Health and Disability Commissioner Act as clearly as the right to consumer choice and consent does. For instance, although privacy in treatment is important, it is not the primary focus of this particular legislation.