Events allow public to have say on NHS

PATIENTS are being invited to review a range of policies regarding when and how non-emergency operations and treatments are carried out.

The NHS in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland wants to hear the views of local patients to ensure they have the best kind of treatment for their condition, and are only being referred for procedures such as operations, when professionals know that such things are likely to be effective for their medical problem.

The work is being led by three NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGS) who are responsible for planning and buying health services for local people.

Dr Hilary Fox, from East Leicestershire and Rutland CCG, on behalf of the three CCGs said: “There are always risks and potential complications of medical treatment, so we need to be sure that any procedure is appropriate for the patient’s individual circumstances.

“It is important to have policies in place so that doctors have clear guidance on treatments and decisions are made in the same way for each patient.”

Patients are being asked to comment on 51 existing policies, two of which have changed, and 50 new policies that are being introduced.

All comments must be made by Tuesday September 26, and this can be done by visiting www. leicestercityccg.nhs.uk/ planned-care to view the policies and the supporting information, followed by a survey, by requesting a paper copy of the survey by calling 0116 295 1116 or emailing beinvolved@leicestercityccg. nhs.uk, or by attending one of three events where patients can find out more about the policies, ask questions and complete the survey.

The first of three events will be held on Tuesday September 18, at the Falcon Hotel in Oakham, from 3pm to 6pm.

The second, at Voluntary Action Leicestershire, 9 Newarke Street, Leicester, on Thursday September 20 from 10am to 1pm, and on the same day at the Ramada Hotel in Loughborough, from 3pm to 6pm.

Dr Hilary Fox, added: “We would really like to encourage patients to comment on the policies, so that we can find out whether patients understand them, if they have any questions about them and if there is anything else that they think should be included.

“It is really important that patients let us know their views so that these policies are effective in guiding our health professionals and letting our patients know what to expect.”