Sir, – In response to the article headlined "Patients told they have limited choice", (D&S Times, Oct 10), I would like to clarify that Hambleton, Richmondshire and Whitby Clinical Commissioning Group (the CCG) and local General Practitioners do not restrict where people can seek the treatment they need.
This "right to choice" is enshrined in the national NHS 2014/15 Choice Framework, which states that if someone needs to see a consultant or specialist as an outpatient for a physical or mental health condition, they can choose an organisation that provides their NHS care and treatment anywhere in England providing it offers a suitable service. This is a legal right.
The CCG and local GPs have always supported patient choice, and continue to do so.
Dr VICKY PLEYDELL
Clinical Chief Officer
Hambleton, Richmondshire and Whitby Clinical Commissioning Group.
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