The NHS Constitution establishes the principles and values of the NHS in England.
It sets out:
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rights to which patients, public and staff are entitled
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pledges which the NHS is committed to achieve
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responsibilities which the public, patients and staff owe to one another to ensure that the NHS operates fairly and effectively.
The NHS Constitution forms part of the Health Act 2009. This places a legal duty on the NHS and its providers to have regard to the NHS Constitution, which will safeguard the principles and values of the NHS for the future, and sets out the rights and responsibilities of patients and staff.
