NHS Scores highly in Diabetes Survey
21/02/2007
An independent survey to measure the quality of adult diabetes services from the patient’s perspective has shown a ‘hugely positive’ picture of NHS care and treatment in Gloucestershire.
The study was performed as part of the National Patient Survey Programme led by the Healthcare Commission which aims to improve the quality of care in the NHS.
The survey covered all areas of diabetes care including diagnosis, check ups and tests, self management of the condition, education, psychological and emotional support, stays in hospital and access to GP services.
564 patients took part in the survey (a 67% response rate) which was carried out between August and November 2006.
The study shows that the local NHS received a ‘very good’ rating in key areas such as provision of patient information, convenience of services, records management, testing, medication, advice on diet and physical activity, hospital care and accessibility to and care from GP surgeries.
Chief Executive of Gloucestershire Primary Care Trust, Jan Stubbings said:
“It is very pleasing to see how well the local NHS is performing across many areas of service and this is down to the hard work of local doctors, nurses and those co-ordinating and managing services for our patients.”
“As well as receiving high standards of care, patients are saying that access to information and support is also very good, which is crucial in helping patients to take control and manage their own condition when appropriate.”
Mike Whatmore from Cheltenham, a patient representative on the Gloucestershire Diabetes Group said:
“The survey received a very good response. It is very positive to see that overall patients have good control of their diabetes, are given the necessary help and support when needed and feel good about their care and treatment.”
The NHS Plan required all NHS Trusts to take part in the survey programme with a view to improving the experience of each individual patient.
The information drawn from the survey will be used by the Healthcare Commission to contribute to the Annual Health Check performance ratings for Primary Care Trusts.
