Many patients are unaware of their rights and the additional support available to them as they navigate their healthcare journey. Alongside dealing with your medical condition, you may also face non-medical issues, such as worrying about everyday essentials like healthy food, household bills or housing. All these things can have a negative impact on your health.

We've developed a factsheet and an animation covering what patients need to know about their rights, how to manage healthcare appointments and care, and what benefits and support may be available. 

These resources were developed as part of our project on how social and economic factors affect the health of people living with blood disorders and/or cancer, however the guidance developed from the report is relevant for all patients.

The project was funded by Bristol Myers Squibb, a global biopharmaceutical company. Bristol Myers Squibb has had no influence in the project or on the development of any materials.

Download the factsheet

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📌 Find helpful resources and learn more:
🔗 NHS Constitution for England – www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-nhs-constitution-for-england
🔗 Shared Decision-Making Guide – www.patients-association.org.uk/shared-decision-making
🔗 Healthcare Travel Cost Scheme – www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/help-with-health-costs/healthcare-travel-costs-scheme-htcs/
🔗 Household Support Fund – www.gov.uk/cost-living-help-local-council
🔗 Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – www.gov.uk/pip
🔗 NHS app - www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/
🔗 Citizens Advice - www.citizensadvice.org.uk/
🔗 Getting the most out of your appointments - www.patients-association.org.uk/getting-the-most-out-of-your-appointment

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Contact the Patients Association helpline