The author explicitly outlines the rights which he believes essential for the psychiatrist in order to assure ethical and competent professional performance: (1) the right to form an independent opinion; (2) the right to define personal and professional limitations; (3) the right to formulate a treatment plan that is expected to be effective in achieving explicit goals; (4) the right to define the characteristics of the clinical setting that will best serve the purpose of goal achievement; (5) the right to consult with colleagues; (6) the right to maintain undisclosed the observations, thoughts, formulations, and predictions about the patient; and (7) the right to terminate responsibility for the treatment and care of a patient with reasonable notification and assistance in finding other professional services. Collins points out that these rights are not opposed to those of the patient or of society in general, but, rather, enhance them and facilitate the patient's gaining access to appropriate care and treatment.