A new NHS Constitution would give patients on long waiting lists the right to private treatment, according to Government plans.

Patients will have the right to quick NHS treatment, the right to NHS dentistry and the right to die at home under proposals from Prime Minister Gordon Brown and health secretary Andy Burnham.

A legal entitlement to treatment within 18 weeks of referral by their GP will be given to patients, while those with suspected cancer will be seen by a specialist inside a fortnight. Should the NHS be unable to treat patients quickly enough, patients will be offered alternatives including treatment at private hospitals.

The Government hopes the new system would end the geographical variations in treatment in the country, ensuring that all people receive the same standard of care.

However, the Conservatives want to phase out NHS targets, such as those focus on waiting times, and instead concentrate on the outcomes for patients.

Copyright © Press Association 2009

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