The NHS Constitution sets out rights for patients, public and staff. It also outlines the responsibilities that we owe to one another to ensure the NHS operates fairly and effectively.
The rights cover how patients access health services, the quality of care you’ll receive, the treatments and programmes available to you, confidentiality, information and your right to complain if things go wrong.
Patient access policy
Our patient access policy covers how our patients will access our outpatient, diagnostic and elective (day case and inpatient) services in accordance with the Constitution.
Patient access policy: summary for patients and carers
When you are in hospital you can expect:
- To have a clear explanation of your condition and the treatment options available to you. If you have difficulties speaking or understanding English please ask for an interpreter before your appointment. BSL Interpreters are also available when booked in advance.
- To be asked for your written permission (called ‘consent’) for any operation or certain procedures after being given all relevant information
- To have arrangements made for you to see your patient records if you want
- To be sure that the information in your records will be confidential and only seen by those delivering your care
- To be treated with respect and dignity at all times in an environment that is clean
- To get told about different aspects of your treatment and what procedures are being carried out
- To keep relatives or carers informed of your progress if you want us to.
In return, we ask you to:
- Give us the information we need about your condition, symptoms or medication so we can provide appropriate care
- Treat our staff with the same respect you expect from them
- Let us know about any special needs you may have (for example), an interpreter
- Help, as far as possible, in feeding yourself, keeping mobile and with your personal hygiene
- Arrange for your own transport home, if possible
- Arrange with your family and friends to take care of your personal laundry, if possible
- Be considerate to other patients.
