February 2021 Feedback Report

This report contains the key messages and themes that Healthwatch Greenwich gathered from the responses from 390 local people in February 2021. They are:

• COVID-19 Vaccination – most report a very positive experience of getting vaccinated, however, issues around access remain for home-bound patients, for those who wanted to rearrange a missed appointment, and for those who were in the priority list but hadn’t been contacted.
• GP services – there were mixed sentiments about accessing GP services – some felt staff were kind and helpful, while others described their interaction lacking empathy. GPs were often not willing to listen to more than one health concern; it was difficult to get through on the phone- as a result some gave up after waiting for prolonged periods; new patients faced difficulties when registering with a practice; it was challenging for some to access digital care due to lack of digital skills or confidence; access to repeat prescriptions, blood tests ands timely referrals have also been an issue for people.
• Other services - people have also reported facing access issues with physiotherapy, adult social care services for the vulnerable, and access to routine NHS dentistry. Relatives of loved ones in a number of elderly care homes gave positive feedback in regard to the quality of care provided by staff.