Experiences of people with visual impairments of accessing health and care services in Leeds
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Healthwatch Leeds wants to shine a spotlight on the visually impaired community and highlight some of their experiences to inform improvements in health and social care service. They also wanted to find out whether people can access information in a way which meets their communication needs after the Accessible Information Standard had been in force for nearly 3 years. Between January and March 2019, they worked collaboratively with a number of organisations. Overall 113 people gave their feedback.
biggest challenges people faced when accessing health and care services are communication needs not being met and access to support. For example, a lot of people said that they receive hospital appointment letters in an inappropriate format, which then results in delays in treatment.
Over two in five respondents said they come across accessibility issues when attending their appointments. Examples include issues with transport, signage and a lack of help with navigation around hospitals.
Half of respondents reported receiving little or no help in accessing health and care services. Those who were unable to access support reported they were struggling alone or relying on family members to help. Many people rely on their doctors to provide them with support and information about their condition. The majority are happy with the advice given by their doctors. However, when people are not attending doctor or hospital appointments, there is a gap in information provision.
People of different age groups access information about care and support in different ways. A strong message from people was that information should not be solely internet based. Some respondents have no idea where to find information and reported feeling isolated and lonely.
People reported long waiting times for appropriate social support after sight loss and a lack of home care or long-term support to be the major problems they face. However, most people who can access support are happy with the services provided.