Patient experience of Outpatient Services at James Cook University Hospital
Download (PDF 1.62 MB)Summary of report content
In September 2017, Healthwatch Middlesborough and Healthwatch Redcar and Cleveland worked in partnership to gather the views and experiences of patients, family members and carers within a number of outpatient clinics at The James Cook University Hospital.
A questionnaire was used to gather patient feedback, the questions were provided by South Tees Clinical Commissioning Group. Healthwatch staff and volunteers visited a number of outpatient departments over the course of a two-week period beginning Tuesday 29 August 2017.
They spoke to over 200 patients, family members and carers and asked them to complete a questionnaire giving their feedback on their care and treatment following their outpatient appointment that day.
The following outpatient departments were visited: Cardiology, Endoscopy, Gynaecology, Ophthalmology, and Trauma.
The report concludes that over 90% of the patients felt the need for any treatment was fully explained to them, they understood the next steps of their treatment and had been provided with information about how to manage their condition. The majority of patients also confirmed they were satisfied with where their appointments are currently being held however, a proportion may be willing to consider alternative locations and methods of consultation.
Following this piece of work, local Healthwatch met with representatives from NHS South Tees Clinical Commissioning Group to discuss these findings and next steps. A decision has been made that any future consultation will include pilot questionnaires to address any issues including clarity, understanding and interpretation of questions. They will be strengthening the relationship with NHS South Tees Clinical Commissioning Group to ensure a continued joined up approach to public engagement.