What standards of care can I expect?

This section has information about the standards of care you should expect when referred to hospital for tests or treatment.

  Key points

• Your hospital will either write to you with your appointment date, time and directions to your clinic or they may ask you to phone them to make an appointment on a suitable date.
• They will tell you what will happen during and after your appointment, and give you a phone number to ring if you have any questions.
• Your nurse or doctor will explain what is wrong with you, the different treatments for your condition and the risks and benefits of each treatment. They will discuss this with you and listen to your views. If you decide to go ahead with your treatment you may be asked to sign a consent form, after you have been given a full explanation of the proposed treatment.
• You can expect to be involved in all decisions about your treatment’s.
• Any relative or friend you name will be kept informed about your condition.
• Your health records are confidential and are held securely. You can see your records if you ask. You may be asked if your health records can be used for important health research, including the improvement of care and treatment. Your decision will be respected.
• You may be asked to take part in medical research or medical student training. You do not have to agree to this.
• NHS staff will respect your privacy and dignity. They will be sensitive to, and respect, your religious, spiritual and cultural needs at all times.
• You will be treated fairly by the NHS staff, according to your healthcare needs, regardless of age, sex, disability or sexuality.

Page last edited: 25 November 2011

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