Within the NHS constitution there is a general right to choice of provider. This covers a number of areas
- Patients can choose which GP practice to register with (as long as they are in the catchment area)
- For consultant-led treatment patients can choose which specialist provider they are referred to for their first outpatient appointment. This applies to all specialities including mental health. Whether to refer, and to which department/service, is the referrer’s (GP’s ) decision, but the patient can choose which of the providers that are contracted to provide this service they are referred to. Where possible 5 choices should be given and the patient can make their choice via e-RS after they have looked into it further.
- The patient can choose a provider outside of the normal geographical area if they wish.
- The options can include providers who are generally known as private providers but which hold an NHS contract for the service in question. These are often referred to a ‘Right to Choose‘ providers.