You are the most important part of our healthcare team. By working together, we achieve the greatest outcomes for your hospital stay. To contribute to this effort, you can:
Designate Someone to Ask About Your Condition
Due to privacy regulations, patient information can only be shared with others with the patient’s permission. We ask that you clearly designate a family member or friend with whom we may share your information.
Get to Know Your Team
Learn your nurse’s name and ask about the doctor who will coordinate your care and any other members of your healthcare team. Ask for business cards if appropriate.
Know Your Rights
Mather Hospital acknowledges and respects your rights as a hospital patient. You will receive a copy of the Bill of Rights for patients and for parents/legal guardians during your admission process. In addition to the New York State Patients’ & Parents’ Bill of Rights, Northwell Health grants these further rights to our patients.
Protect Your Valuables
Please send home money, jewelry and other valuables rather than keep them in your hospital room. The hospital is not responsible for the loss of valuables. To prevent the loss of personal items such as eyeglasses, hearing aids or dentures, please do not place them on food trays or on the bed where they may get mixed with the linens.
Ask for Communication Assistance
For patients who speak limited English or are hearing impaired, a language interpreter will be provided at no cost. Notify your nurse if you require assistance, or contact the Nurse Manager or Evening/Night Administrator at ext. 5244. Our staff will also make every reasonable effort to meet religious, cultural and gender identity needs and expectations. Please tell the nursing staff upon admission about any requirements.
Appoint a Healthcare Proxy
The New York Healthcare Proxy Law allows you to appoint someone you trust – for example, a family member or close friend – to make healthcare decisions for you if you lose the ability to make decisions yourself. By appointing a healthcare agent, you can make sure that your wishes are followed.