Long Term Plan Somerset Report
Download (PDF 501.64 KB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch Somerset engaged 263 people with surveys and focus groups, particularly focussing on those living with a disability and those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This was part of the NHS Long Term Plan project that was undertaken by the network.
The report found that people would like longer GP appointments and to feel listened to by healthcare professionals. People wanted to access help closer to home and for there to be better data sharing between NHS organisations. Disability needs should be considered when attending hospital, for example more hoists and visual aids. People want more specialist community-based support and advice for those with long-term conditions such as COPD. It was reported that they would like more community transport options to help those people in the more rural areas to get to GP and hospital appointments and better infrastructure, such as cycle paths and street lighting.
The next steps included further engagement work to explore more views from seldom heard groups.
The STP responded that the findings will be used to help design services and that they commit to working with Healthwatch and residents further as our plans evolve.