Must-have tool for navigating the health service

As a public law solicitor who regularly challenges NHS decisions, I found this book to be an invaluable resource. The second edition is designed for a wide range of readers, including legal professionals, policymakers, NHS managers and students interested in healthcare law. It is particularly useful for those wanting to understand the evolving complexities of NHS governance and patient rights.

This book is accessible to both newcomers to NHS law and those already familiar with the subject. The authors’ expertise in public and administrative law ensures that even complex legal concepts are explained clearly, making the book a valuable reference for readers at all levels.

It covers the organisation of the NHS, from NHS trusts and integrated care boards to the Department of Health and Social Care. Central to the book is a focus on patients’ rights, including the NHS’s responsibility to provide care, access to treatment, waiting lists, and addressing health inequalities. One of the most practical sections discusses using judicial review as a remedy in NHS-related legal cases. With their extensive experience, the authors provide a step-by-step guide on how to approach legal challenges, making the book especially useful for lawyers representing clients in this field.

Despite its technical content, the book balances legal detail with readability. It clarifies complicated legal language, ensuring that non-legal readers can understand the material, while providing enough depth for experienced practitioners. The inclusion of case studies and real-world examples further enhances its practical value.

Overall, NHS Law and Practice is a must-have tool for anyone involved in NHS governance, healthcare law, or working on legal challenges against the NHS. It provides both clarity and depth on complex issues that I encounter regularly in my practice, making it an indispensable guide in navigating an intricate legal landscape.

Lisa Morgan is a partner at Hugh James, Cardiff