NHS constitutional advisory forum launched

The Department of Health has announced the launch of the NHS constitutional advisory forum -a group of health figures who will advise the government on how to engage people in the consultation process for the document in the most effective manner.

It will include NHS representatives, those from local government, the third sector and other groups who will engage with stakeholders, staff and the general public before presenting its final report later this year.

The draft of the constitution was developed as part of the review of the NHS by Lord Darzi and published at the end of June 2008 with the goal of enshrining the values and principles of the NHS for the future.

David Nicholson, chief executive of the NHS and joint chair of the forum, said: “The 60th anniversary of the NHS has given us an important opportunity to consider how it will meet the challenges of the future.”

He added it will clarify the rights of staff and patients, with it being vital to consult as widely as possible on the constitutions to make sure it reflects the values of the health service.

In June 2008, the Department of Health said the draft NHS constitution incorporates the right to drugs and treatment approved by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence where clinically appropriate.