NHS Constitution: New patient rights

The NHS Constitution brought together in one place what the NHS does, what it stands for and the commitments it should live up to.  It describes and renews our commitment to the values and enduring principles of the NHS.  It is also a living document that needs to reflect what matters and is relevant to the needs of patients, the public and staff in the 21st century.

This consultation proposes new patient rights to:

• Treatment within a maximum of 18 weeks from a GP referral and to be seen by a cancer specialist within 2 weeks from a GP referral, or where this is not possible, for the NHS to take reasonable steps to offer a range of alternative providers; and
• NHS Health Checks for those aged 40 to 74 to assess their risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease

To respond to this consultation, please either complete the online response form, email the NHS Constitution mailbox or write to the address below:

Email: NHSConstitution@dh.gsi.gov.uk

Click here to open the Online Response Form
Click here for more information

This consultation ended on the 5th of February 2010.