Chance to have your say on NHS; A consultation process on new proposed patient rights for the NHS Constitution has been launched in the North East. Health Reporter HELEN RAE finds out more.

Byline: HELEN RAE

A NATIONAL consultation proposing new rights for patients has been launched, with the local NHS is seeking the public's views.

Over the next few months NHS North of Tyne will be talking to staff, patients, carers, and the public, on the proposed changes.

The NHS Constitution, which has recently received Royal Assent as part of the Health Act 2009, was published in January this year and brings together, for the first time, the principles, values, rights and responsibilities that underpin the NHS.

It forms the basis of a new relationship between staff, patients and the public - a relationship based on partnership, respect and shared commitment, where everyone knows what they can expect from the NHS and what is expected from them in return.

This current consultation focuses on new proposed patient rights, which include: Treatment within a maximum of 18 weeks from a GP referral and to be seen by a cancer specialist within two weeks from a GP referral, or where this is not possible, for the NHS to take reasonable steps to offer a range of alternative providers; NHS Health Checks for those aged 40 to 74 to assess their risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease.

Dr Mike Guy, medical director for Newcastle and North Tyneside PCTs and Northumberland Care Trust, said: "The NHS belongs to all of us and the constitution sets out our rights and responsibilities.

"It's really important that people have the chance to comment on the proposals as they will affect what we can all expect from the NHS as well as how we as patients have a responsibility to use the NHS wisely."

Views on a series of other potential new rights which could be put in place over the next five years are being sought.

These include the right to access NHS dentistry, choosing to die at home and the right to personal health budgets and diagnostic tests within maximum waiting times.

The consultation period will last until February 5 next year and a copy of the consultation is available at www.dh.gov.uk/en/Consultations/Liveconsultations/DH_108012 You can respond to the consultation online at www.info.doh.gov.uk/questionnaire/nhs_constitution.nsf or you can e-mail [e-mail] or write to the NHS Constitution Team, Richmond House, 79 Whitehall, London, SW1A 2NS.

Alternatively you can feedback your comments directly to NHS North of Tyne by e-mailing [e-mail] . Any comments received locally will be fed back directly to the Department of Health.

CAPTION(S):

RESPONSIBILITY - Dr Mike Guy, medical director for Newcastle and North Tyneside Primary Care Trusts HOW ARE YOU TREATED? - Patients and doctors will be consulted about a proposed new charter of rights for patients