The Health Rights Hotline publishes Consumer Action Guides that provide step-by-step advice to consumers on an array of topics. The Action Guides are designed to assist consumers in understanding their rights and navigating the health care system. While the Action Guides reflect consumers' rights in California, the information may be helpful to consumers in other states. Be sure to check your state's laws and regulations regarding your health care rights.

Consumer Action Guides are available in either HTML or PDF format. In order to view the PDF versions of these documents, you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you do not have this program, you can download it for free by clicking here.

In addition to the Action Guides, the Health Rights Hotline has developed some sample letters for use by consumers who are having problems with their health care coverage. Although the letters are based on California law, they may be useful to consumers in other states. You will need to adapt the letters to your specific circumstances. Please be sure to read the introduction section on using the sample letters. The introduction provides guidelinens for using the letters and tips on how you can make the letters most effective.

• Choosing a Health Plan or Medical Group: HTML | PDF (121K)
• Take Charge of Your Health Care: HTML | PDF
• Understanding Your Health Plan Agreement: HTML | PDF (122K)
• Referrals and Approvals for Medical Services: HTML | PDF (119K)
• What To Do If You Have a Problem With Your Health Plan: HTML | PDF (121K)
• Resources to Help You Resolve Your Health Care Problem in California: HTML | PDF (84K)
• How to Appeal a Health Plan or Medical Group Decision: HTML | PDF (121K)
• Information to Support Your Appeal: HTML | PDF (75K)
• Appeal Rights In Medi-Cal Health and Dental Plans: HTML | PDF (79K)
• A Consumer Guide to Handling Disputes With Your Private or Employer Health Plan
• Learning About Your Health Condition: HTML | PDF (85K)
• Your Rights As A Person With Pain: HTML | PDF
• Sample Letters