The NHS Constitution sets out the principles, values, rights, and responsibilities for patients, the public, and NHS staff in England. It explains what you can expect from the NHS, wherever you live, including Essex.
All NHS organisations must follow the NHS Constitution. This helps ensure patients receive safe, high-quality care and are treated fairly and with respect.
Your rights as an NHS patient
Under the NHS Constitution, you have the right to:
- receive NHS services free of charge, except where charges apply by law
- access safe, effective, and high-quality care
- be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion
- receive care from qualified and appropriately trained professionals
- be involved in decisions about your care and treatment
- receive information in a way you can understand
- request accessible information under the Accessible Information Standard
- ask for a second opinion
- raise a concern or make a complaint and have it investigated
- have your personal and health information kept confidential
These rights apply to all NHS services in England.
Your responsibilities as an NHS patient
The NHS Constitution also sets out responsibilities for patients. These help ensure NHS services work effectively for everyone.
You should:
- attend appointments or cancel them if you cannot attend
- follow agreed treatment plans where possible
- provide accurate information about your health
- treat NHS staff and other patients with respect
By working together, patients and healthcare professionals can help ensure the NHS provides the best possible care.
How NHS organisations apply the NHS Constitution
All NHS organisations, including NHS Essex Integrated Care Board, must take account of the NHS Constitution when planning and delivering services.
This helps ensure services are safe, fair, and centred on patients.
Read the NHS Constitution
You can read the full NHS Constitution on gov.uk website. This explains your rights and responsibilities in detail.
Understanding your rights helps you take an active role in your care.