The Accessible Information Standard aims to ensure that patients (or their carers) who have a disability or sensory loss receive information they can access and understand, for example in large print, braille or via email, and professional communication support if they need it, for example from a British Sign Language interpreter.
This applies to patients and their carers who have information and/or communication needs relating to a disability, impairment or sensory loss. It also applies to parents and carers of patients / service users who have such information and/or communication needs, where appropriate.
Individuals most likely to be affected by the Standard include people who are blind or deaf, who have some hearing and/or visual loss, people who are deaf blind and people with a learning disability. However, this list is not exhaustive.
There are five key requirements of the Standard:
1. Ask patients and carers if they have any information or communication needs, and find out how to meet their needs.
2. Record those needs in a set way.
3. Highlight a patient’s file, so it is clear that they have information or communication needs, and clearly explain how those needs should be met.
4. Share information about a person’s needs with other NHS and adult social care providers, when they have consent or permission to do so.
5. Make sure that people get information in an accessible way and communication support if they need it.
If you feel that this applies to you or someone in your care please complete the attached form and hand it in at the surgery or collect a form from surgery if you wish.
Further information can be found on: