More reassurance needed about how medical records are being used by government

We share our views on government plans to provide medical researchers and NHS managers with access to people’s personal medical records.
We are calling on the Rt. Hon Mr Hunt to create a single regulatory regime for different uses of patient records and ensure that people have the right to opt out of all government data sharing projects.
News

Bringing the voice of consumers to Parliament

Healthwatch from across England share their concerns in Westminster to make sure people can have their say about changes to health services in their area.
Healthwatch from across England share their concerns in Westminster to make sure people can have their say about changes to health services in their area.
News

Our response to CQC plans to introduce special measures scheme for GP practices

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has announced plans to introduce a new 'special measures' scheme for GP practices that will see those offering poor care being given deadlines to make improvements and facing closure if they fail.
The special measures scheme will be introduced from GP practices from October this year.
Response

Our response to CQC special measures report

The Care Quality Commission has released a report into progress made at 11 NHS trusts that were put into special measures in July 2013.
The report, highlights the work by Monitor and the NHS Trusts Development Authority to support the 11 trusts in special measures.
Response

Local people being cut out of decision making about their health services

The way decisions are made about local health services is changing. Early indications from local Healthwatch suggest that this is resulting in the public feeling less able to have their say.
We've heard from local Healthwatch across the country that Super CCGs are failing to involve their communities in major decisions about redesigning services - from hospitals and GP surgeries to dentists and care homes.
News

Our concerns about reduced local accountability arrangements

We have written to the Secretary of State about our concerns about reduced local accountability arrangements around commissioning.
Local Healthwatch are reporting that these new structures are cutting corners and making little effort to actively engage their local populations in major decisions about the redesign of services.
Response