Dorset County Hospital A&E: people's experiences
Download (PDF 5.84 MB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch Dorset undertook research to understand the needs and expectations of people who use A&E, to help make the services better now and to inform the plans for a new modern Emergency Department at the Dorset County Hospital as they develop the site over the next five years. Analysis of their evidence suggests that:
- Almost three quarters of people rated their experience as ‘very good’.
- People found A&E staff kind, caring, professional and organised.
- Waiting times were quick but there was good communication and patients were kept fully informed.
- Patients were offered further support, and the information and aftercare met their needs.
- Suggestions for further improvement included improved reception staff attitude, better navigation and signposting, improved facilities and greater confidentiality and privacy for patients.
Healthwatch have made six recommendations to improve patient experience in A&E.