DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
News Release (2007/0117) issued by The Government News Network on 16
May 2007
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 today.
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."
Notes to editors
For the full Healthcare Commission 2006 Inpatient Survey results,
please go to the following link. This information is strictly
embargoed until 00:01 Wednesday 16th May: http://www.healthcarecommission.org.uk/inpatientsurvey2006mediainformation
[ENDS]