This in from HealthWatch Isle of Wight, in their own words. Ed
Time is running out to contribute to a survey that Healthwatch Isle of Wight are undertaking into the impact of cancelled/postponed outpatient appointments.
The survey was commissioned by Healthwatch Isle of Wight following feedback from residents identifying the issue of ‘postponement of outpatient appointments’ as one they would like to see reviewed by the local health and social care watchdog.
The survey, which launched on 3 December, will run until 7 January 2015.
What is HealthWatch?
Healthwatch Isle of Wight plays a key role in giving a voice to everyone within the Island community on health and social care issues. The survey aims to establish the reason for and occurrence of cancellation/postponement of appointments, as well as the impact this has on the patient. For example, were travel costs involved? Did you need to book time off work? Did you need to arrange childcare/carer cover? Was this the first time your appointment was cancelled? How much notice were you given?
The results of the survey will be analysed and any areas of best practice or areas highlighted as needing improving will be reported to the Isle of Wight NHS Trust, Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group, the Care Quality Commission and also the individual clinics where appropriate.
How to take part
Hard copy surveys are available from the Citizens Advice Bureau located at the Isle Help Advice Hub in Newport High Street.
The survey can also be accessed online
Anyone who wishes to share their experiences (good or bad) of local health and/or care services with us can do so by ringing 01983 608608 or by emailing [email protected]
