The experiences of the people of north east Essex in relation to dermatology services

Healthwatch Essex was approached by Suffolk and North East Essex ICS to undertake a series of projects focussing on the lived experiences of people in the area in relation to their health, care and wellbeing.  This project looks at people’s experiences of using the dermatology service in north Essex, which currently has waiting times of 47 weeks at Colchester Hospital and 16 weeks at Ipswich Hospital.  They undertook a survey, interviewed people and developed case studies.  Altogether they collected the experiences of 32 people.

The general feeling from respondents was very negative. The long waiting times for appointments and lack of communication/information has resulted in distrust, a lack of confidence in the system and frustration.

Lack of follow ups and monitoring of skin conditions has led to people having to go back through the referral process numerous times, seeking private treatment or trying to cope with the situation on their own. This is not an effective use of resources and causes more distress for the patient. It costs the system more with patients having to return to their GP and going through the referral process again.

People talked about the impact that waiting times had on their mental health. The feeling that they are not listened to or the impact that their condition has on their lives is not taken seriously. This could lead to other NHS services having to be accessed so these patients can have suitable support.

There is a lack of understanding as to which conditions are covered by the NHS and which are not and how that remit seemed to change over the course of the pandemic. Clearer information needs to be given to patients, so they can make an informed choice regarding further treatment options.

The report includes five recommendations about spreading the waiting list between the two hospitals, better communication, listening to patients, supporting carers and training for GPs.