What Are the Legal Mechanisms for Seeking Solutions to Disparities in the Delivery of Care in the NHS and Where Does Liability Lie?

Abstract

This review deals with the potential role of Commissions and Inquiries into delivering a just service to patients from ethnic minorities. It takes as an example the experience of people with inflammatory bowel disease and the National Health Service in the United Kingdom. Although there are many legal safeguards, the avenues open to groups of patients who experience discrimination, are limited and generally ineffective. Government inspired responses such as Commissions and Inquiries are inadequate and not fit for purpose.