A review of people's experiences with Health and Care Services whilst living with cancer during COVID-19
Download (PDF 3.55 MB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch Oldham completes a bi-monthly survey called the Healthwatch Oldham 100. This survey is designed to obtain views from local people on a range of subjects. In January 2021, Healthwatch Oldham released a Living with Cancer during COVID-19 survey to better understand the experiences people who live with cancer have had during the pandemic.
The survey was completed online, but people were invited to complete paper versions, as well as staff offering to complete the survey online over the phone. 31 people completed the survey. Key findings:
- 8 people were alone when they received their diagnosis, causing feelings of upset and isolation.
- Most have had appointments changed during the pandemic from face to face to remote. 17 people said they could not have any one attend with them for support.
- Over half had their treatment change during the pandemic, generally delayed or cancelled.
- 12 people were not able to access support/information to help with side effects.
- 10 were spoken to about eligibility for COVID-19 vaccine, 9 of whom reported being advised to take it.
- There was a lack of consistency with regards to arrangements of remote appointments.
Healthwatch Oldham made 5 key recommendations.
- Where feasible, allow a family member or friend to attend for support. If consultation is online, make patients aware beforehand they can have someone present.
- Address patients’ concerns ab9ot getting an accurate diagnosis without being seen in person.
- Improve communication to patients who have treatments delayed or cancelled, and address concerns around long term impacts of delayed treatment.
- Make information for patients to support them clearly stated and available when someone starts a specific treatment.
- Tackle inconsistencies in remote appointments.