Health
At some stage of our lives we all become ill or develop health problems unfortunately some people find it more difficult to get the help that they need in order to get better.
What you need to know about your rights and how to access health care services:
- Everyone who has a learning disability should be registered with a G.P.
- Everyone with a learning disability should be offered a health action plan that will tell you and people that you want to share it with what your health needs are, how these health needs can be met and who will help you to do this.
- People with a learning disability should be offered a health care check on an annual basis.
- In Walsall there is a team called the Integrated Learning Disability Team. Doctors, nurses, social workers, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, speech and language therapit and support workers all work in this team. They are there to offer you advice and support about any concerns or health problems that you may have.
Health facilitation
If you don't have a health action plan and would like one you can contact the learning disability health facilitator at the Allen's Centre. Contact details are below. The health facilitator can help you access health services such as breast screening.
Consent to treatment
In order to have most treatments you need to give your consent. By giving your consent you are saying that you understand the reasons for the treatment and what the treatment will involve. The Department of Health have published a leaflet called 'Consent – A Guide for people with learning disabilities'. Department of Health website (external link)
The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) may also be able to help you. Their contact details are below.
Contact us
Learning disability health facilitator
Allen's Centre
Hilton Road
New Invention
Willenhall WV12 5XB
Telephone 01902 413006
Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)
Walsall tPCT
Jubilee House
Bloxwich Lane
Walsall WS2 7JL
Telephone 01922 618388