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NHS ‘weak’ areas must be addressed at ward level, says Which?

16 October 2008

In response to the Healthcare Commission Annual Health Check, published today, Claire Lilley, health campaigner, Which?, says:

“We are pleased to see an overall improvement in the quality of services in Trusts across England, but it’s not time for the NHS to crack open the champagne. An unacceptable number of Trusts remain weak*, meaning hundreds of patients are simply not receiving the quality of care they are entitled to. On top of this, a quarter of NHS Trusts failed to meet infection control standards, which are essential in the fight against hospital-acquired infections like MRSA.

“The report also reveals a dramatic decline in the number of patients able to see a GP within two working days**, following the inclusion of patients’ views in the assessment. This is yet another example of why patient feedback must be put at the heart of the NHS. It is only by speaking to patients, visitors and staff that the NHS will gain a true insight into standards of care, and from that bring about positive changes for the future. ”

Notes to Editor

 

* The Healthcare Commission Annual Health Check found that 5 per cent of the 391 NHS Trusts reviewed were cited as ‘weak’ for quality of services.

** The Healthcare Commission Annual Health Check found a decline in the number of PCTs meeting the target that every patient should be able to see a GP within two working days, down to 31 per cent this year, from 80 per cent last year.