Long Term Plan Black Country & West Birmingham Report
Download (PDF 946.53 KB)Summary of report content
Five local Healthwatch engaged 1446 local residents in the network-wide project to gain insight into how people view local healthcare services, and use the findings to shape local action to support delivery of the NHS England Long Term Plan (LTP). Focus groups and surveys were used to gather this feedback.
The report found that people want more control over their medical records as well as easy access to information that helps with their care. Communication needs to be timely and people want to be involved in the key decisions for their care. Many people with specific conditions wish to be seen by a known health professional, especially for longer-term support. Online consultations and information about the voluntary sector are aspects of people's care that would be preferable to increase the ease of access to help and support.
A number of recommendations were made including: offer patients a greater choice how they are communicated with; offer greater opportunity to access information and services; consider the use of plain language by health professionals; find better ways of ensuring vulnerable people stay up to date with vaccinations.
The STP responded to this report and stated that they are developing a strategy to support the implementation of the Long Term Plan (LTP).