A week in A & E
Download (PDF 311.61 KB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch Wigan and Leigh collected feedback from 79 people in A&E using a questionnaire.
The findings of the report include that people attended A&E for a range of reasons, such as couldn't get a GP appointment, it was the most appropriate place for their condition, and it is quicker than the GP. People wanted more information about what alternative services they could use and about what conditions can be treated in A&E. The waiting area was well stocked with refreshments, with plenty of seats and electronic display boards. Some people commented on the long waits in A&E until they are seen.
The recommendations include that triage and referral pathways should be consistent and clearly communicated; Communication between services need to be improved such as referral services and ambulatory assessment units. The check-in experience needs to be improved for patients. The way that patients are called should be done differently as some people cannot hear when their name is called.
A response from the service provider is included.