NHS Help Card launched on Teesside
Extra support is now available to patients across the NHS Tees area thanks to the launch of the NHS Help Card.

The NHS Help Card is designed to assist anyone who may need a little extra assistance when visiting a NHS hospital, GP surgery, dentist or optician.

By showing the card patients can quickly alert staff to any problems they may have such as being hard of hearing, unable to understand English or needing a wheelchair.

The free card features a blank panel on the front where people can write down any special requirements and a tick list of different languages on the reverse for those who cannot speak English.

NHS Help Cards are being rolled out as part of a regional pilot to improve patient access and patient experience and are available free to any patients who wish to have one, as well as their relatives, friends and carers.

The card makes it easier for patients to ask for help and puts the onus firmly on the NHS to respond to and support patients whatever their query or concern.

Patients may need assistance for a number of reasons including:

• Hearing an appointment being called
• Being guided where to go
• Understanding the English language
• Caring for a disabled friend or relative
• Understanding what is happening for people who have a learning disability

Paul Frank, Associate Director of Communication and Engagement for NHS Tees said: "The launch of NHS Help Cards will be integral in helping us to continue to deliver a highly patient focused service. These cards have been designed to give extra help and support to people whenever they visit local health services."

NHS Help Cards are now available from GP surgeries across the NHS Tees area. For more information visit www.northeast.nhs.uk/helpcard