Focus on the Accessible Information Standard for GP practices in England
April 2016
Tell us about your communication needs using the Accessible Information form
The Accessible Information Standard aims to ensure that patients who have a disability, impairment or sensory loss have access to information they can understand and the communication support they may need. The Standard applies to service providers across the NHS and adult social care system. As organisations that provide NHS services, GP practices are required by law to follow the Standard under Section 250 of the Health and Social Care Act2.
There are five key requirements of the Standard and as a Practice we will;
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We will ask patients and carers if they have any information or communication needs, and find out how to meet their needs;
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Record those needs in a set way;
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Highlight the patient’s file, so it is clear that they have information or communication needs, and clearly explain how those needs should be met;
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Share information about a person’s needs with other NHS and adult social care providers, when they have consent or permission to do so;
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Make sure that people get information in an accessible way and communication support if they need it wherever we possibly can do.
If you have any suggestions to help us we would be very happy to hear from you and happy for any patients to work with us to develop and test our information delivery and effectiveness; this would be very much appreciated.
Information leaflets for patients including easy read can be downloaded.
Download the Making health and social care information accessible summary or download an easy read version of this information.
You can download a form which details your communication requirements, complete and hand to any of our Reception Team or collect a form when you are next in the Practice ask any of Receptionists.
NHS Accessible Information Standard Update July 2015 BSL Video and Subtitles
Accessible information audio link
Do we make ourselves clear?
Do you have a disability, impairment or sensory loss and need to receive information in a way you can easily understand, for example:
- Large Print
- Braille
- Via Email
- Hearing Impaired
- Alternative Languages
- Other Support (if required, British Sign Language (BSL))
If yes, please inform us at reception so we can make sure you have access to information you understand.