More than two thirds of recent feedback on the Isle of Wight’s health and social care services is negative, according to an independent watchdog.
Healthwatch Isle of Wight’s Intelligence Report for 13th September to 12th October found 68 per cent of feedback was negative, compared to 27 per cent positive feedback and five percent which was mixed or neutral.
Negative feedback has increased by 18%
The latest information revealed last week shows negative feedback has increased by 18 per cent since the last report was disclosed.
The two most widespread areas of feedback related to dentistry and GP services which have previously drawn significant attention.
Dentists and GP services
Nearly 50 negative responses were recorded as relating to dentistry while GP services received over 20 negative pieces of feedback.
Residential care homes also stood out in the report with 15 negative reactions.
One patient reported two instances of being unable to contact her GP practice to make an appointment for over an hour.
She twice had to hang up due to phone provider charges.
“We are committed to ensuring the best possible care is delivered”
A spokesperson for NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said,
“We would like to thank Healthwatch Isle of Wight for sharing this report, and for all they are doing to give local people on the Island a voice on these very important healthcare issues.
“Alongside our partners and NHS provider trusts, we are committed to ensuring the best possible care is delivered for our communities, ensuring access to the right services at the right time on the Isle of Wight.
“Over the past two years, NHS dental access has improved, GP appointments have risen and we have launched more collaborative ways of working with our community services.
“We also understand that not every patient will experience these positive steps directly and we are continually striving to ensure the NHS is delivering the best care for everyone.
“Feedback is vital and we continue to invest and make sure that services feel supported while acting quickly to any situations that require help, such as the recent continuing of NHS dental services in Freshwater.”
IWC: Work hard to make improvements when required
An Isle of Wight council spokesperson said,
“We are pleased to commission and fund Healthwatch locally as this provides Island residents with an independent place where any concerns they have can be raised.
“The council’s Adult Social Care team work hard to monitor the quality-of-care services on the Isle of Wight and support care providers to make improvements when required and work closely with Healthwatch to ensure that all feedback is shared appropriately and used to inform service improvement.”
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
