What is the NHS Constitution?

The NHS Constitution is a vital document for the National Health Service (NHS) in England. It sets out the principles, values, and commitments that underpin everything the NHS does. It also defines the rights and responsibilities of patients, staff, and the wider public when interacting with the NHS.

Introduced in 2009, the Constitution formalises what people can expect from the NHS. It helps maintain transparency, trust, and accountability. It ensures the NHS remains patient-centred and delivers high-quality care to everyone who needs it.

Who the Constitution Applies To

The NHS Constitution covers various groups:

• Patients: It sets out what patients can expect regarding the level of care, choice, and respect.
• Public: It addresses commitments the NHS makes to the wider public, such as promoting health and reducing inequalities.
• Staff: It outlines the rights and responsibilities of NHS workers to ensure a supportive working environment.

Patients and staff who engage with the NHS are supported by the Constitution, which underlines their rights and strengthens their position during interactions.

Key Principles of the NHS

The Constitution lays out seven key principles that guide the NHS’s work:

1. The NHS provides a comprehensive service available to all.
2. Access is based on clinical need, not an individual’s ability to pay.
3. Patients are at the heart of everything the NHS does.
4. The NHS aspires to provide the highest standards of care.
5. The NHS works across organisational boundaries and in partnership with other organisations.
6. The NHS is committed to providing the best value for money in using public resources.
7. The NHS is accountable to the public, communities, and patients it serves.

These principles act as a foundation for decision-making and guide how care is delivered.

Patient Rights

The NHS Constitution defines specific rights for patients. These include:

• Access to healthcare: Patients have the right to receive NHS services free of charge, except for some lawful exceptions (e.g., prescription charges where applicable).
• Choice: Patients can make choices about their care and access information to support these decisions.
• Waiting times: Patients have the right to access certain services within set time limits. For example, non-urgent consultant-led treatment must start within 18 weeks of referral.
• Respect and dignity: Patients have the right to be treated with dignity, respect, compassion, and fairness.

Other rights involve privacy, informed consent, and involvement in decisions about treatment. Together, these rights help support a better experience when accessing healthcare.

Public Responsibilities

The Constitution also highlights public responsibilities to help the NHS function effectively:

• Attending appointments or cancelling them in good time.
• Registering with a GP and providing accurate information.
• Using health services responsibly to avoid wasting resources.
• Participating in public health programmes like immunisation.
• Giving feedback, including compliments and complaints, to improve the service.

By fulfilling these responsibilities, individuals help the NHS deliver better care to those who need it.

Staff Rights and Pledges

NHS staff are vital. Their rights are recognised in the Constitution, such as being treated with respect and having a safe working environment.

The Constitution makes pledges to staff, which include:

• Providing learning and development opportunities.
• Supporting mental health and wellbeing.
• Offering flexibility for work-life balance.

These commitments ensure that staff feel valued and are equipped to deliver the best care possible.

Staff Responsibilities

While staff have rights, they also have responsibilities. These include:

• Providing high-quality care to patients.
• Treating colleagues and service users with respect and compassion.
• Protecting patient privacy and confidentiality.
• Being honest and open about their actions.

Responsibilities help ensure the NHS operates efficiently and ethically.

Values of the NHS

The NHS Constitution defines six core values to guide its culture and actions:

1. Working together for patients: Partnerships are prioritised to deliver joined-up care.
2. Respect and dignity: People are treated as individuals with compassion and understanding.
3. Commitment to quality of care: The NHS strives for excellence in all aspects of its service.
4. Compassion: Every action reflects kindness and understanding.
5. Improving lives: The focus is on better health and wellbeing for all.
6. Everyone counts: Resources are used wisely to benefit the entire population.

These values help create an environment where patients and staff work together effectively.

Accountability

Accountability is central to the NHS Constitution. The NHS is accountable to Parliament, patients, and the public. This ensures transparency in decision-making.

For example, every NHS organisation must:

• Comply with regulatory standards, such as those monitored by the Care Quality Commission.
• Aim for continuous improvement in care delivery.
• Respond to feedback and learn from mistakes.

This structure ensures the NHS remains trustworthy and focused on its mission.

Real-Life Examples of the Constitution in Action

The Constitution plays a role in everyday situations:

• Waiting times: A patient referred to a specialist may use their 18-week right to treatment if delays occur.
• Informed consent: A staff member must prioritise clear communication, ensuring patients understand risks and benefits of their care options.
• Access rights: If a treatment isn’t funded locally, a patient can refer to the Constitution to request reconsideration.

These examples show how the Constitution protects individuals in practical and meaningful ways.

Annual Report and Evaluation

The Constitution is reviewed regularly. Any updates or changes reflect shifts in public health priorities or funding arrangements. These reviews ensure the document remains useful in guiding the NHS’s work.

Public and staff input is considered during reviews, helping develop policies that meet everyone’s needs.

Future Goals and Challenges

The NHS Constitution is adaptable, reflecting developments in healthcare and changing public needs. It aims to stay relevant in a world of medical innovation and evolving public health issues.

Challenges can include resource limitations, staffing concerns, or addressing inequalities. Despite these issues, the Constitution prioritises fairness, quality, and inclusivity in its ongoing mission.

Conclusion

The NHS Constitution is a cornerstone of healthcare in England. It balances the rights and responsibilities of patients, staff, and the public. Through its principles, values, and commitments, it ensures the NHS remains focused on delivering high-quality, patient-centred care.

By being aware of the NHS Constitution, people can better understand their rights and responsibilities. It creates a foundation for collaboration, trust, and shared goals between patients and healthcare providers.