Accessible Information Standard (NHS England)
The Accessible Information Standard is an NHS England initiative. It informs organisations about how they should ensure that disabled patients and their carers receive information in understandable formats, as well as receiving appropriate support to assist them with communication - such formats could include large print, braille or easy-read documents.
Disabled people are defined as persons with disabilities including those who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments which, in interaction, may set up barriers and hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.
All organisations that provide NHS services, or publicly funded adult social care, must have fully implemented and conformed to the Accessible Information Standard (1605) by 31st July 2016. This means we would like to record your preferred method of contact so that you can receive your health information in a format you can understand. The practice will ask patients if they have any information or communication needs, and discover how best to help them. This information will be documented clearly. The practice will “flag” individuals’ files or notes to highlight that they have information/communication needs, stating how these needs can be met.
It is good practice to take existing data held by the practice that indicates which patients are more likely to have information/communication needs and this will help to proactively target individuals to identify and document their needs in line with the Accessible Information Standard.
If you or someone you are caring for wishes us to contact you in another way, please do let us know by informing either reception or the Patient Services team. We will then record your needs by highlighting it on your medical records.