Runcorn MP Mike Hall supports Government pledge on patient referrals

Nov 26 2009 by Mike Brennan, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

RUNCORN MP Mike Hall has backed Labour’s new enforceable rights for patients.

The move means that if NHS trusts cannot meet three ‘guarantees’ they will have to find patients somewhere to be treated as soon as possible, even if it is in the private sector.

Mr Hall said: “The NHS is one of Britain’s greatest achievements. A service that is available to all based on need – not ability to pay. From being on its knees in the mid-90s the NHS is now in better shape with more staff on the ground and new hospitals.

“But although there has been investment and improvement I think you want to know what we have planned for the future. Labour is going to give more real power to patients.

“We want to go even further than the guarantees announced this week.

“Our cancer pledge is to give people the legal right to get tested for cancer and get results within a week of seeing a GP.

“And we also want to bring in the right to see a GP at weekends or in the evening, and to abolish practice boundaries for good. I will be campaigning for these new rights to be brought in as soon as possible."

The new rights are:

A free health check every five years for those aged 40-74.

Seeing a cancer specialist within two weeks if your GP suspects you may have cancer.

All treatment should be within 18 weeks of GP referral.