The Accessible Information Standard aims to ensure that disabled people have access to information they can understand and the communication support they may need. The Standard applies to service providers across the NHS and adult social care system. As organisations that provide NHS services, GP practices are required by law to follow the Standard under Section 250 of the Health and Social Care Act.
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 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, and people with a learning disability. However, this list is not exhaustive.
Do you have any specific Information or Communication needs?
If you are registered at the Oswald Road Medical Centre and the answer is yes, you can either ask at Reception for a Communication / Information needs form or you can download and return the form (DOCX, 15KB).
Please complete the form and return to the practice and upon receipt this information will be added to your medical records to assist us in supporting your needs.
Free access to British Sign Language to communicate with health services
BSL Health Access is a new, on demand video remote interpreting service to help people access health services where BSL interpretation is not available.
For many Deaf people, using the English language is not always an effective or safe and appropriate way to communicate important medical advice.
The purpose of the service is to facilitate communication in health related situations such as GPs, dentists, pharmacies, opticians, NHS hospitals and other health care related appointments. The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and interpreters are fully qualified and registered.
To get started, there is no need to register and patients can access the service using the website. Alternatively, they can choose to register and download the free Interpreter Now App (iOS & Android). This will also allow health care professionals to call the patient back if necessary.
To find out more or to use the service, visit the BSL Health Access website at www.bslhealthaccess.co.uk