§ Mr. DhandaTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he is taking to implement the Government's commitment to give patients more power over the treatment they receive. [156827]
§ Mr. HuttonBuilding on the Best: Choice, Responsiveness and Equity in the NHS, published on 9 December 2003, sets out what steps we are taking to increase patient choice in the national health service. The document includes six priorities for immediate action including extending choice in treatment and care. One of the six priorities emphasises the importance of information so that patients have the power and confidence to work in partnership with clinical staff and share decisions about their care and treatment.