July Intelligence Report

Healthwatch East Riding of Yorkshire undertook research on local people's experiences of health and social care services in July 2026. They received 13 pieces of feedback. Complaints were the most common reason for contact, and hospital services generated the highest proportion of feedback, followed by general practice. 

People reported significant difficulties accessing GP services, including long waits for appointments, problems registering with practices, lost paperwork, issues obtaining repeat prescriptions and lengthy telephone queues. Feedback about hospitals was mixed. Positive comments praised clear communication, efficient appointment management and professional care at Castle Hill Hospital. However, concerns were raised about long waits for surgery, extended waits in A&E, bed shortages, delays in receiving pain relief, overnight stays in chairs and difficulties accessing rehabilitation services. 

Access to NHS dentistry remained a major concern, with residents reporting an inability to find NHS dentists accepting new patients and some having to pay privately for urgent treatment and follow-up care. Healthwatch also received complaints about patient transport, including a case where a patient cancelled an appointment after being refused transport. A further complaint highlighted delays receiving biological medication because of prescription sign-off and administrative issues, with concerns raised about staffing pressures and poor communication. 

Overall, the report highlights ongoing challenges around access to care, appointment availability, waiting times, transport and communication across a range of services. At the same time, some patients reported positive experiences of individual staff and services, particularly where communication was clear, appointments were managed effectively and care was delivered professionally and compassionately.