Experiences of patients and families, Isle of Wight
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Healthwatch Isle of Wight carried out a survey about the experiences of people who had used Cancer Services over the previous two years. The survey took place in December 2015 and 220 people participated.
Responses to the survey indicated the very high importance attached to the diligence and manner of professional staff, whether in NHS or other organisations. A majority of feedback about this was positive.
Concerns were expressed about the effects of crossing the Solent for certain treatments and services. Participants highlighted specific points that could be addressed to reduce more severe impact.
A number of issues emerged around co-ordination of services. Clinical updates were not always available to professionals, and patients could find themselves passing on this information. Case co-ordination tended to falter if a key individual professional was absent from work. The process of moving from one NHS Trust to another was not always smooth.
Moving through the process of diagnosis and treatment, there was a mostly positive picture. However, outpatient appointments, support from Accident & Emergency and in-patient admissions, all raised their own areas of concern. The process of discharge from mainland hospitals was also highlighted.
Participants could not always recall being given information on sources of support. Overall, a lack of coherence was found in access to information. There were specific gaps around information on financial help.
This report includes recommendations made by Healthwatch Isle of Wight in the light of the survey findings.