The Accessible Information Standard
Suffolk GP Federation – Accessible Information Standard
The Accessible Information Standard came into force from 31st July 2016 across health and social care in England.
The purpose of the Standard is to ensure all patients have access to information that they can understand and are provided with any support they need.
Which patients does the Standard affect?
The Standard applies to all patients and service users who have specific communication needs relating to disability, impairment or sensory loss. This also applies to carers, parents and guardians who are responsible for sharing information with the people they care for. Individuals most likely to be affected by the Standard include those who are blind, deaf, have some form of hearing and/or visual loss, or people living with a learning disability.
Which organisations have to follow the Standard?
All organisations that provide NHS or adult social care must follow the Standard. This includes Suffolk GP Federation.
The aim of the Standard is to provide more personalised care – improving patient satisfaction and experience.
It should also lead to better outcomes (for example an earlier diagnosis and treatment of a condition), improved patient safety and enhance the patients’ ability to self-care and adhere to clinical and medical advice.
What we do with your information
When you contact Suffolk GP Federation your requirements will be noted on our secure database to help us prepare for the next time you use our services and ensure we are meeting your communication needs. We also:
- Work with GP practices to ensure that they are aware of any tailored information needs.
- Share patient information and communication needs with other providers of NHS and adult social care, if there is consent or permission to do so.
- Take steps to ensure that patients receive information that they can access and understand and offer communications support if needed.
Who to contact if you have a communication preference
Please contact Suffolk GP Federation at info@suffolkfed.org.uk to make us aware of any specific communication needs.
More information can also be found at: https://www.england.nhs.uk/ourwork/patients/accessibleinfo/