Independent panel formed for NHS Constitution review

The government has created an independent panel of experts that will be responsible for carrying out a review of the NHS Constitution.

NHS Future Forum leader Professor Steve Field has brought together a special working group to provide advice on the impact the constitution has made since its introduction in 2009.

Consisting of medical professionals, patient champions, staff representatives and charities, the group is looking at ways of strengthening the constitution, such as the new commitment to support whistleblowing and tackle poor care standards.

A public consultation will also be launched later this year to give patients and staff an opportunity to offer feedback on further improvements that could be made.

Health secretary Andrew Lansley said: "Patients are at the centre of our reforms and … we will look to strengthen the NHS Constitution to make sure it is working for the benefit of patients and staff."

The government also recently proposed a new duty to the constitution that would require healthcare professionals to be proactive about helping patients to improve their health whenever they come into contact.