The London Neurocognitive Clinic: Championing Human Rights, Patient Choice, and Personalised Neuropsychological Care
The London Neurocognitive Clinic: Championing Human Rights, Patient Choice, and Personalised Neuropsychological Care
The UK’s healthcare system is increasingly focused on ensuring patients have more control over their care, with an emphasis on human rights and patient choice. Central to this is the NHS’s “Choice Framework,” which outlines the rights patients have when making decisions about their healthcare. The framework gives patients greater autonomy in choosing where and how they receive care, and is particularly important for those seeking personalised, timely treatment or navigating complex funding arrangements. In this context, Dr Sara Simblett and Mr Patrick Litani established The London Neurocognitive Clinic, a facility dedicated to providing high-quality neuropsychological care that prioritises patient choice, dignity, and respect—whether through compensation claims or self-funded private care.
What Is the Choice Framework?
The NHS “Choice Framework” is a policy document that informs patients about their rights when making healthcare decisions. It allows patients to choose their healthcare provider, where they receive treatment, and access specific services that align with their needs and preferences. It covers everything from selecting a GP practice to choosing a specialist for more complex conditions. The framework’s goal is to empower patients by giving them more control over their treatment, ensuring that their choices are respected at every stage of their care journey.
This emphasis on choice aligns closely with The London Neurocognitive Clinic’s approach. By prioritising patient preferences, the clinic offers a model of care where individuals can make informed decisions about their treatment, benefiting from personalised and responsive neuropsychological services.
The Founders: A Partnership Rooted in Patient Rights and Accessibility
Dr Sara Simblett, a clinical psychologist with expertise in neuropsychology, has dedicated her career to supporting individuals facing cognitive challenges due to neurological and mental health conditions. Her approach is based on respecting each patient’s rights and autonomy, while delivering care that addresses both cognitive and emotional needs. For Dr Simblett, patient choice is fundamental—each person should have a say in the care that aligns with their values and life goals.
Mr Patrick Litani, with his background in commercial finance and business development, adds a crucial dimension to the clinic. His expertise has helped shape a healthcare model that balances financial sustainability with patient-centred service, allowing the clinic to offer flexible options for those relying on compensation claims, private insurance, or self-paying clients seeking timely, tailored care.
Together, Dr Simblett and Mr Litani have created a clinic where patients’ choices are central to their care, ensuring they receive the support they need in the way that best suits them.
How the Choice Framework Shapes Care at The London Neurocognitive Clinic
The London Neurocognitive Clinic was established with a clear mission: to provide neuropsychological care that aligns with the principles of human rights, patient choice, transparency and accessibility. Here’s how the clinic incorporates the Choice Framework in practice:
1. Empowering Patients with Control Over Their Care: The NHS “Choice Framework” ensures that patients have the right to choose where and how they receive care. At The London Neurocognitive Clinic, this principle is at the heart of the service. Whether selecting the timing of appointments, the type of therapy, or the specialist leading their treatment, patients have control over their care journey. This is especially beneficial for self-paying clients, who can access care quickly and choose personalised treatment without the delays often associated with public healthcare.
2. Supporting Patients with Different Funding Sources: Many patients at the clinic receive funding through compensation claims related to personal injury or medical negligence. The clinic is skilled in helping these patients navigate the complexities of their care, ensuring treatment is coordinated and consistent with legal and financial guidelines, while still prioritising patient choice. For those who self-fund or use private health insurance, the clinic provides streamlined services with flexible options, allowing them to choose the interventions and timelines that best meet their needs.
3. Providing Holistic, Integrated Care Aligned with Patient Preferences: Reflecting the NHS’s focus on integrated care, The London Neurocognitive Clinic offers services that go beyond assessment and diagnosis. The clinic combines cognitive assessments, therapy, and practical life support into a comprehensive care package. Patients are involved in every aspect of decision-making, from choosing treatment approaches to determining the pace and goals of their therapy. This personalised approach ensures that care is aligned with each patient’s unique circumstances and preferences.
4. Ensuring Transparency and Accessibility: The clinic prioritises inclusivity and transparency, making it easier for patients from diverse backgrounds to access the care they need. For those who self-pay, private healthcare offers advantages such as shorter waiting times and more personalised consultations. The clinic provides clear and transparent pricing, ensuring that patients fully understand their options and can make informed decisions about their care.
A Vision for Rights-Based, Patient-Centred Neurocognitive Care
The London Neurocognitive Clinic embodies a model of care that blends clinical expertise with a strong commitment to patient choice and human rights. By aligning with the NHS’s “Choice Framework” and embedding these principles across all funding pathways, the clinic provides a patient-centred experience where individuals feel empowered to take control of their healthcare decisions. Whether patients are navigating compensation claims, using private insurance, or self-funding, they benefit from personalised care that respects their autonomy and preferences.
For self-paying clients, the clinic offers the flexibility to access high-quality care on their own terms, avoiding long waits and gaining access to specialist services tailored to their needs. By embedding the principles of human rights and patient choice into every aspect of care delivery, The London Neurocognitive Clinic ensures that all patients receive the support they need, aligned with their values, circumstances, and life goals.
As UK healthcare continues to evolve with a focus on patient empowerment and inclusivity, The London Neurocognitive Clinic stands as a model for how these principles can be effectively implemented. By addressing the unique needs of both compensation-funded and self-paying clients, the clinic offers a comprehensive, compassionate, and flexible care model that truly puts patients first.
In an increasingly complex healthcare environment, The London Neurocognitive Clinic demonstrates that high-quality, rights-based care can be delivered with flexibility, transparency, and respect for patient choice—regardless of how that care is funded.
