9 February 2009
New NHS Constitution launched
A historic signing ceremony took place recently at Downing Street to mark the launch of the NHS Constitution for England.
The Constitution, the first of its kind in the world, was signed by Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Health Secretary Alan Johnson and NHS chief executive David Nicholson.
The Constitution gives power to patients and the public by bringing their existing rights together in one place so they know what they are legally entitled to do - and how they can exercise their rights as well as understanding their responsibilities. It also contains a range of pledges to patients, public and staff, which the NHS is committed to achieving.
For NHS staff, the Constitution means an NHS-wide commitment to equipping them with the tools, training and support they need to deliver high quality care for patients.
Lord Darzi’s review of the NHS, High Quality Care for All, concluded last summer there was a case for an NHS Constitution to enshrine the principles and values of the NHS in England.
The document is designed to safeguard the future of the NHS and renew its core values, making sure it continues to be relevant to the needs of patients, the public and staff in the 21st century.
Health Secretary Alan Johnson said: “This is a momentous point in the history of the NHS. The content of the Constitution is based on discussions with thousands of NHS staff and patients across the country and will form the basis of a new relationship between staff and patients - a relationship based on partnership, respect and share commitment where everyone knows what they can expect from the NHS and what is expected of them.”
Dr Ed Garratt, head of communications for NHS East of England - who also played a pivotal role in the development of the Constitution - said: "The Constitution reaffirms patients' rights and enshrines the values of an NHS that is universal, tax funded and free at the point of need. Ultimately, this will help to ensure the NHS is truly patient focused.
“It is really important we continue to engage people in the rights, pledges and responsibilities of the Constitution, as it will provide the tapestry for the NHS.”
ENDS
Media contact : Jo Triggs tel: (01245) 514235 | Mobile : 0790 005 4948
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