The goal of this descriptive study with a qualitative approach is to analyze Brazilian Diabetes Mellitus user knowledge about their health rights. Twelve participants with diabetes were attended in 2008 at a university center in the countryside of the state of São Paulo, Brazil, by means of an open interview. Thematic content analysis made it possible to identify three categories: the role of the public power in disseminating information; health professionals' competencies and responsibilities: the moral-ethical duty to inform; and user participation or exemption in searching for information about their rights. We emphasize the need to share information among: public power, health professionals, and users with the intent of promoting the quality of health assistance, permeated with respect for the health rights of users with diabetes.
Nursing; Diabetes Mellitus; Patient rights; Public policies; Bioethics