§ Mr. Patrick HallTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what work his Department is undertaking to examine the role of patient advocates, with particular regard to supporting complainants through the NHS complaints procedure; and what plans he has to consult community health councils about their role in assisting complainants; [126244]
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- (2) when he will respond to the report, "A New Life for Health", prepared by the Commission on Representing the Public Interest in the Health Service; [126245]
- (3) what plans he has to consult on a new NHS Charter. [126246]
§ Ms StuartThe Patient Care (Empowerment) Modernisation Action Team is considering the future roles for patient advocates and community health councils in assisting complainants, together with the format and content of a new National Health Service Charter.
Following publication of the national plan in July, the Department will begin work on implementing the recommendations of the modernisation action teams.