Patient Rights: What You Need to Know in the UK

When you walk into a GP surgery or a hospital, you have a set of clear rights that protect you and your health. Knowing those rights helps you feel confident, ask the right questions, and get the care you deserve. Below we break down the most important entitlements and show you how to use them without any jargon.

Your Core Rights at the Doctor’s Office

Informed consent is the first rule. Before any test, treatment, or procedure, the clinician must explain what will happen, why it’s needed, and any risks. You can say yes, no, or ask for alternatives. If something isn’t clear, ask the doctor to repeat it in plain language – they are legally required to do so.

Confidentiality means your personal health information stays private unless you give permission. The NHS has strict rules about sharing data, and you can ask to see who has accessed your records.

Access to your records is another right. You can request a copy of any part of your medical file for free or a small charge. Having your records lets you spot mistakes, understand past treatments, and share info with other health professionals.

Choice of treatment isn’t always unlimited, but you can discuss different options with your clinician. If you prefer a private provider for a specific service, the NHS will give you information about referrals and costs.

Respect and dignity are non‑negotiable. Staff must treat you with courtesy, listen to your concerns, and accommodate cultural or language needs when possible. If you feel disrespected, note the details – date, time, staff names – to use later.

How to Raise a Concern or Complaint

If something goes wrong, you have a clear route to speak up. Start by talking directly to the person involved; many issues are resolved on the spot. If you’re not comfortable doing that, use the practice’s Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS). They can help you understand the complaint process and mediate if needed.

For formal complaints, the NHS uses a three‑step system: informal discussion, formal written complaint, and, if necessary, the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman. Keep copies of all correspondence and note any deadlines – usually 12 months from when the issue occurred.

When filing a complaint, be specific: what happened, who was involved, why it mattered to you, and what outcome you expect. Clear facts make it easier for the service to investigate and act.

Remember, you can also contact the Care Quality Commission (CQC) if you think a provider is not meeting basic safety standards. The CQC inspects hospitals, GP surgeries, and care homes, and they publish inspection reports you can read online.

Finally, consider getting advice from a patient advocacy group. Organizations like Healthwatch or the British Medical Association offer free guidance and can sometimes intervene on your behalf.

Knowing your patient rights turns a passive visit into an active partnership. Use these entitlements to stay informed, feel respected, and get the best possible care. If you ever feel unsure, just ask – the NHS is built on the idea that patients should be at the centre of every decision.