Who looks after my medical care?
The consultant and his/her team of doctors are responsible for your medical care while you are in hospital. If you have any questions about your condition or treatment, please do ask.
We want to make sure you understand your treatment and why it is needed. Before you receive any treatment the person treating you will explain to you what he or she is recommending and answer your questions. No treatment is carried out without your consent.
Who looks after my nursing care?
Your 'named nurse' has overall responsibility for your nursing care. You will see other nurses too, of course, but your named nurse monitors your nursing care throughout your stay. If you are unsure who this nurse is, please ask the ward sister or charge nurse.
Is my treatment confidential?
We take confidentiality very seriously. Unless we have your permission we do not pass on detailed information about your condition to anyone.
Will I be seen by medical students?
The Royal Free is one of London's leading teaching hospitals so medical students often join doctors and consultants on the ward. However, if you do not wish to be seen by medical students please tell the ward sister or charge nurse. We can then make sure students are not present during your treatment.
We respect your wishes
We aim to respect your privacy, dignity and religious and cultural beliefs at all times. Please tell us about any special requirements, such as diet or washing.
We have Anglican, Roman Catholic, Muslim, Free Church and Jewish chaplains and can arrange for you to see ministers and leaders of other Christian and non-Christian groups too. The chaplains are happy to talk to all patients who would like support, whether religious or not. Please ask the ward staff to help you to make contact.
The Royal Free respects the patient's right to refuse treatment in advance. An advance decision (also known as an Advanced Statement or Living Will) is a way of making your views known should you become mentally incapable of giving consent to treatment, or of making informed choices about your treatment or of being fully involved in the planning of your care. Staff must follow any valid and applicable advance decision and give your other wishes serious consideration. Full details can be found in the policy document below: