Cell phones

Cell phones and other wireless communications devices are allowed in most areas of our hospitals, except in specific patient care areas. Signs are clearly posted in areas where they are not permitted.

As a courtesy to others, please limit your cell phone use, speak in a low voice and set the ringer to vibrate or low. To protect the privacy of others, you may not use phones or other devices to take pictures within the hospital without the consent of those being photographed.

Patient privacy

We are committed to protecting your family's privacy and confidentiality in accordance with federal and state privacy laws and regulations, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act.

For information about how we may use and disclose your child's protected health information, please download our Notice of Privacy Practice.

Visitation policy

We may restrict visitation privileges to ensure the health and safety of patients, staff and visitors. We are not permitted to restrict, limit or otherwise deny visitation privileges on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation or disability.

Patient complaints

You and your child have the right to express concerns or complaints about our care with the assurance that the quality of your child's care or future access to care will not be compromised. You also have the right to expect a reasonable and timely response to your concerns.

For more information about submitting a complaint, visit Patient Relations.

Safety drills

Safety is a fundamental concern. We participate periodically in fire and emergency drills to test safety equipment and as part of our continuing Safety Education Program for all employees. If an alarm sounds while you are here, please stay calm and follow the staff's instructions. We will take care of you and your child.

Smoking

Because we care about your family's health and the health of others, our facilities are smoke-free. Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is prohibited in and around the hospital premises and affiliated sites. Outdoor smoking areas at our hospitals have been eliminated.

Non-discrimination policy

It is our policy not to engage in discrimination against or harassment of any person employed or seeking employment or patient care with UCSF Health on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, physical, mental or other disability, medical condition (cancer-related or genetic characteristics), ancestry, marital status, age, sexual orientation, citizenship or status as a covered veteran (special disabled veteran, Vietnam-era veteran or any other veteran who served on active duty during a war or in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized). Non-discrimination information is available in an alternate form of communication to meet the needs of people with sensory impairments.