Most patients in Wales show confidence in their doctors

27 Oct 2014 04:00 PM

The overwhelming majority of Welsh patients have confidence in their doctors, according to the results of a new survey published yesterday.

Every five years, doctors must obtain formalised feedback from patients to retain their license to practise. This process is called medical revalidation and it started in December 2012.

In Wales, the organisation Equinity360Clinical was commissioned to provide consistent feedback on all doctors working in primary care and in hospitals.

The views of the first 55,000 patients are now available and show strong support for the work of Wales’ doctors. Wales is the only nation in the UK that collects this information on all doctors.

The survey covered a range of areas key to patient experience.  

The results show the overwhelming majority of patients in Wales are happy with the doctor they see (94%) and their involvement in making decisions about their care and treatment (88%).

Other findings from the patient feedback include:  

• 98% of patients said their doctor was polite and considerate;
• 95% of patients had confidence in their doctor;
• 95% of patients said their doctor explained things in a way they could understand;
• 87% of patients felt better/were able to understand and/or manage their condition and their care.

Health and Social Services Minister Mark Drakeford said:

“Doctors play a vital role in our NHS.

“The results of revalidation show patients across Wales have confidence in their doctors and are fully consulted when making decisions about their treatment and care.

“The relationship between a patient and their doctor has a real effect on patient experience. These results provide assurance doctors in Wales are providing a service to be proud of.”

Dr Phil Banfield, Chair of the BMA’s Welsh Council said:

“This evidence coming from patient feedback through revalidation demonstrates the high level of confidence patients have in their doctors across NHS Wales. It also validates the high standard of professional care doctors are striving to deliver daily, that is clearly recognised and appreciated by patients in Wales.”