The waiting game: How delays to care during the Covid-19 pandemic have affected people in Kirklees
Download (PDF 545.65 KB)Summary of report content
Since March 2020 Healthwatch Kirklees have had a lot of feedback from the public about delays, difficulties and changes in NHS and social care services, due to the Covid19 pandemic affecting how these services were run. They undertook a survey between June and August 2021 and received 129 survey responses from service users, their families and carers in Kirklees.
People reported having difficulties making appointments to see GPs face-to-face, not receiving expected follow-up care or diagnostic tests in a timely manner and delays in accessing specialist services.
Some people experienced a lack of communication about waiting times and next steps for treatment, which led to them feeling abandoned or overlooked. Poor communication led to missed opportunities to empower people to better manage their own health conditions
Some people highlighted the need for service improvement to support people with psychological and mental health needs, brain injuries and long-term illnesses.
People reported severe deterioration in their physical, mental and emotional health, with high levels of anxiety and worry, even more so where people were living with mental health conditions. Delays had a ‘knock on’ effect to family members as well.
Ove half reported seeking help from family and friends to help them manage everyday tasks, supporting people physically and mentally, and to listen and provide emotional support.
Most people would travel further or be willing to access services at a private hospital (as an NHS patient) if this meant they would be seen sooner. However, people had concerns about transportation difficulties and caring responsibilities if they had to travel further afield.
Despite the pandemic people still needed the same level of support from social carethat they had had previously, and that if they were awaiting support they needed to be kept informed about any delays.
The report contains nine recommendations about information and support, appointments, and communication.