MK Hospital News: Public Urged to Have Say on New NHS Constitution

12th September 2008

NHS Proposed Constitution - Have Your Say

Milton Keynes Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is urging members of the public to have their say on the new proposed NHS Constitution.

Published earlier this summer as part of the 60th anniversary celebrations of the National Health Service, a proposed constitution sets out for the first time the rights and responsibilities linked to entitlement to NHS care.

The draft NHS Constitution sets out principles (a service available to everyone rather than the person's ability to pay) and stipulates important rights for patients and staff. It confers the legal right to “patient choice” and includes a number of specific pledges that go further than the legal minimum.

The constitution aims to empower both staff and patients, and has been developed from the bottom up, with the active engagement of staff, patients and the public.

Chair of Milton Keynes Hospital, Dr Walter Greaves, said:

“At Milton keynes Hospital we are passionately committed to the NHS and our patients. This is mirrored by the tremendous work carried out by every member of staff and our commitment to engaging with our patients by listening to their views.”

“We want to help shape the future of the NHS to benefit local people. I would encourage you to consider the proposed Constitution and submit views and suggestions.”

“The NHS belongs to us all. The constitution is designed to reflect what matters, whether you are a patient or a member of staff. We welcome your views.”

Having your on the say NHS Constitution is simple

If you have a look at the public guide to the proposed Constitution which is on the NHS website in order to view the full proposed Constitution. Or visit www.nhs.uk.

Remember: your views count and there is a deadline - 17th October 2008

Parliament will review the NHS Constitution every 10 years. There will also be a Constitution Handbook that will be refreshed every three years so that it reflects the latest service standards.

As an NHS Foundation Trust we are fully committed to consulting with our local population. If you have any specific views on your hospital's facilties or services, and you are a member of the Trust,please contact your local Members' Councillor by emailing: councillors@mkhospital.nhs.uk.

If you are not a member, please visit: mkhospital.nhs.uk, to join up.

Milton Keynes Hospitals Information