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Copying letters to patients
The Copying letters to patients initiative is a government objective which originated in the NHS Plan. The NHS plan stated, "letters between clinicians about individual patient's care will be copied to the patient as of right."
Thoughts on the scheme
“I have found the policy of routinely offering, then providing, copies of clinical correspondence to patients to be an extremely valuable part of improving the patient's experience of their health care.”
Consultant cardiologist
“Sometimes for whatever reason you don’t fully take on board what the doctor has told you. I found the letter useful to read over and digest properly what was written”
Patient in pilot study
“We talk a lot about involving patients in their care. This is one way in which we can reduce the mystery and share planning with patients and their families at a time when they may be very anxious.”
Medical staff member
Additional links
Copying letters to patients learning resource
This resource has been developed with contributions from over 60 NHS organisations. It presents their experiences of implementing Copying Letters to Patients.
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