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Copying Letters to Patients
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Last modified date:2 March 2007
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Series number:5774
Copying Letters to Patients has been a significant change in culture for some NHS staff but one that has been welcomed by patients . Copying Letters to Patients delivers the principle that “letters between clinicians about an individual patient’s care will be copied to the patient” (NHS Plan, 2000). This is not only an effective way of keeping patients up-to-date with their diagnosis and treatment but also ensures that the patient can contribute fully with any decisions that need to be made.
A learning resource has been developed to support local implementation of Copying Letters to Patients and is available on the DH website. By putting together practical examples of successful implementation from NHS Trusts and PCTs the resource outlines the different successful approaches that have been taken by organisations.
Avon, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire SHA have produced an excellent DVD that illustrates how GPs and consultants recognised the possible problems, but how they worked through them to realise the benefits of copying letters. The DVD is available now and included in the toolkit.
For more information or copies of the video/DVD please contact Patrick Harrison on 0113 2546092 or
Additional links
Communications materials
Information about the benefits this national service will bring.
The big picture
Poster explaining how and when NHS system reforms will enable patient choice. Contact NHS Information Authority on 08453 660 066 quoting reference 1748.
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