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United Kingdom: Patient rights

In England, patient rights are set out in the NHS Constitution; the other nations have similar documents.

Last updated: ~1 min read
On a dark navy background, a document and heart on a scale.
Figure 1.Consent — United Kingdom: Patient rights

01Short answer

You have the right to clear information about treatment and to consent to or decline each treatment. Under data-protection law you can ask to see your health records. If you are worried, talk to your team first; the hospital’s PALS service helps resolve problems. Formal complaints procedures exist too.

02Simple explanation

Information: in clear language.

Consent: for every treatment.

Records: right to see them.

03Scientific explanation

Documents: the NHS Constitution describes rights and responsibilities.

Privacy: health data are protected by data-protection law.

04What happens in the body?

Consent

Once benefits and risks are explained, the decision is yours.

Records

Some records can be seen in the NHS App; ask the hospital for the rest.

On a dark navy background, a folder with a key.
Figure 2.Records — United Kingdom: Patient rights

PALS

PALS helps resolve problems informally; a formal complaint can go on to the ombudsman.

On a dark navy background, a path to a door.
Figure 3.Complaints path — United Kingdom: Patient rights

05Your rights

Four steps.

Information — Ask.1InformationAsk.
Consent — Give or decline.2ConsentGive or decline.
Records — See them.3RecordsSee them.
Concern — Raise it.4ConcernRaise it.
RespectYour voice is heard.
ControlThe decision is yours.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
ConsentOnce benefits and risks are explained, the decision is yours.
RecordsSome records can be seen in the NHS App; ask the hospital for the rest.
PALSPALS helps resolve problems informally; a formal complaint can go on to the ombudsman.

07Key terms

NHS Constitution
NHS Constitution.
Consent
Consent.
Health record
Health record.
PALS
Patient Advice and Liaison Service.

08Key points

  • Ask again if unclear.
  • Ask for an interpreter.
  • Check your records.
  • Raise worries early.
  • Bring someone close.

09Frequently asked questions

Is an interpreter free?

Rules can change; ask the hospital.

Who can see my data?

Only those involved in your care and people you allow.

Will a complaint affect my care?

No, complaining is your right.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Is an interpreter free?

  2. Who can see my data?

  3. Will a complaint affect my care?

My questions

12Sources

  1. GOV.UK (Department of Health and Social Care). The NHS Constitution for England
  2. NHS. What is PALS (Patient Advice and Liaison Service)?
  3. Macmillan Cancer Support. Official website
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Physical Activity and Cancer
  5. Rijksoverheid. Geneesmiddelen (in Dutch)
  6. Sanquin. Official website
  7. Matchis. Dutch stem cell donor centre (in Dutch)
  8. CAK. Official website (in Dutch)
  9. Patiëntenfederatie Nederland. Official website (in Dutch)
  10. NFK (Dutch Federation of Cancer Patient Organisations). Official website (in Dutch)
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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