The National Health Service (NHS) in Sussex has issued new guidance advising staff to reconsider certain terminology used when interacting with patients, aiming to create a more inclusive and supportive environment. The recommendations, outlined in a booklet produced by Sussex Health & Care following a two-year project involving focus groups, suggest replacing some common medical terms to avoid causing distress or alienation.

Among the notable changes, the term "patient" is recommended to be replaced with "expert by experience," reflecting a shift toward validating individuals’ lived experiences with healthcare. The word "assessment" is to be substituted with the phrase "health and well-being discussion," as the former was perceived by some as intimidating or judgmental. Additionally, instead of saying a person is being "discharged," staff are encouraged to use phrases such as "warm handover" or "end of episode of support" to reduce feelings of finality or exclusion. The guidance also advises against describing individuals as "difficult," a term seen as potentially dismissive or stigmatizing.

The booklet emphasizes the importance of language, stating that it holds significant power in either validating a person's experience or making them feel alienated. The changes stem from feedback indicating that certain words can imply judgment or a harsh sense of closure, which may hinder patients’ willingness to seek further help.

These recommendations have drawn varied responses. Lord Young, leader of the Free Speech Union, commented that while simplifying technical medical terminology, such as replacing "myocardial infarction" with "heart attack," can aid understanding, substituting the well-understood word "patient" may be unnecessary and confusing.

Sussex Health & Care, responsible for healthcare services in areas including Brighton, was approached for comment on the guidance. The NHS initiative reflects broader efforts to make healthcare communication more person-centered, although the proposed changes have sparked some debate over clarity and practical implications.