NHS :: Hospital patients rate NHS care highly

Findings from one of the biggest inpatient surveys showing that more than nine in ten hospital inpatients had a very positive experience were welcomed by Health Secretary Patricia Hewitt.

The Healthcare Commission survey of more than 80,000 patients shows that for the third year running the vast majority of patients (92%) reported a positive experience of hospitals in England, rating the care they received as “excellent,” “very good” or “good”.

Health Secretary Patricia Hewitt said:

“This is the public’s real verdict on the state of our NHS today. Staff should take great pride from this endorsement of the care they provide day in, day out.

“When they are choosing a hospital many patients find it helpful to see what other people thought about the care on offer. The Healthcare Commission’s survey is an invaluable insight into what patients really think about the quality of care they receive in hospitals.

“The NHS is totally transformed from what it was 10 years ago. It is heartening to see that, contrary to what critics of the NHS say, the overwhelming majority of patients are happy. They waited less time for treatment, reported higher standards of cleanliness on wards and high levels of trust in doctors and ambulance staff.

“While overall the NHS has an excellent record of treating patients with dignity and respect, we are keenly aware that more still needs to be done. That is why last week we published a report by the Chief Nursing Officer which ensures that reducing the use of mixed sex accommodation is a core priority over the coming year. The report also emphasises the importance of paying attention to broader issues relating to dignity such as help with eating and quality of hospital food.

“We have set out a range of practical advice to help Primary Care Trusts make any improvements that are necessary at a local level.

“With its biggest cash increase ever, the NHS will continue to improve this year with over ?8bn extra money being spent on frontline line services.”


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