Improving local services - the Wandsworth Health and Care Plan and improvements to outpatients
Download (PDF 150.18 KB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch Wandsworth hosted a discussion with 27 local residents about the new Wandsworth Health and Care Plan and proposed improvements to outpatient services at St George's and Queen Mary's hospitals. Participants were broadly supportive of the aims of improving prevention, integration and community-based care, but felt the plans needed stronger patient involvement, clearer implementation and greater focus on health inequalities and accessibility.
Residents emphasised the importance of listening to patient voices, ensuring information is accessible, and making sure services are practical and easy to use. Concerns were also raised about transport, social isolation, support for people with learning disabilities, mental health provision, and how services would be coordinated across health and social care.
Key Findings
- Participants wanted stronger patient and public involvement in developing and implementing the Health and Care Plan.
- There was support for greater focus on prevention, reducing inequalities, person-centred care and better integration between services.
- Concerns were raised about support for people with learning disabilities, access to mental health services, and transport to appointments.
- For outpatient services, residents highlighted the importance of reliable appointment systems, shorter waits, better communication and joined-up IT systems.
- Local and community-based outpatient services were preferred wherever possible.
- Most attendees were cautious about increasing use of digital services, fearing exclusion of older people and others less confident with technology.
Conclusion
The report concluded that residents support service improvement but want changes to be practical, inclusive and centred on patients' needs. Key priorities included better communication, improved access to services, stronger coordination across organisations, and ensuring that digital developments do not create barriers for those who still need traditional ways of accessing care.