The Department of Health is asking for views on proposed new patient rights to treatment within a maximum of 18 weeks from a GP referral and to be seen by a cancer specialist within two weeks from a GP referral, or where this is not possible, for the NHS to take reasonable steps to offer a range of alternative providers. The proposed rights also include NHS health checks for those aged 40 to 74 to assess their risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease. To find out more visit www.dh.gov.uk/en/Consultations/Liveconsultations/DH_108012  the deadline is 5 February 20010 [information courtesy of LINk]