The NHS Constitution was first published on 21 January 2009. It brings together in one place for the first time in the history of the NHS, what staff, patients and public can expect from the NHS. The NHS Constitution sets out the purpose, principles and values of the NHS and a number of rights, pledges and responsibilities for staff and patients alike.
From January 2010, all NHS providers and commissioners have a new legal obligation to consider the NHS Constitution in all their decisions and actions.
Did you know…?
- If your GP refers you for treatment, you have the right for any non-emergency treatment that you need to start within a maximum of 18 weeks or for the NHS to take all reasonable steps to offer you a range of alternatives if this is not possible. You also have the right to be seen by a specialist within a maximum of two weeks from GP referral for urgent referrals where cancer is suspected.
- If your GP refers you to see a consultant you may have a choice of a number of hospitals. You might want to choose a hospital that has better results for your treatment than others, or one near family that live in another part of the country.
- You can view your personal health records. You don’t have to give a reason to see them, just ask at your GP surgery and make an appointment to go in.
- You should always be treated with dignity and respect, in accordance with your human rights. This means, for example, that your right to privacy should be respected. You should not have to share sleeping or bathroom facilities with members of the opposite sex, except on the rare occasions where you need very specialised or urgent care.
- You have the right to have any complaint you make about the NHS dealt with efficiently and have it investigated properly. If you’re not sure
where to start or how to get in touch with an NHS organisation, our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) can help. Contact the PALS team on 01245 459459.
For more information on the NHS Constitution visit www.nhs.uk/choiceinthenhs/rightsandpledges/nhsconstitution/
www.dh.gov.uk/en/Healthcare/NHSConstitution/