Published on: 22 October 2019
The vast majority of cancer patients in South Tyneside and Sunderland felt very positive about the care they received, according to a national survey.
In the National Cancer Patient Experience Survey 2018, South Tyneside patients rated their care 9 out of 10 on average, with Sunderland patients rating their care 8.9 out of 10.
The survey questions reflected key elements of patient experience, including involvement in decisions about care and treatment, being treated with dignity and respect and provision of information. Scores were above the national average in nearly all areas.
In addition to the overall care ratings, other positive responses included:
- 99% of South Tyneside respondents and 93% of those from Sunderland said they were given the name of a clinical nurse specialist who would support them through treatment
- 98% in South Tyneside and 95% in Sunderland said that hospital staff told them who to contact if they were worried about their condition or treatment after they left hospital.
- 92% in South Tyneside and 88% in Sunderland said that, overall, they were always treated with dignity and respect while they were in hospital
- 80% in South Tyneside and 81% in Sunderland said that they were definitely involved as much as they wanted to be in decisions about their care and treatment
As well as answering questions, patients could also comment on their cancer care and treatment. One wrote: ‘Everything about my care was as perfect as it could be. The doctors, surgeon and all nurses were attentive, sympathetic and very professional at all times.’
Melanie Johnson, South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust’s Executive Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals, said; “It is fantastic that so many local patients felt positive about the care they received and their gratitude, as shown in some of their comments, was very touching. Each and every member of the teams involved, from the medical and nursing staff to administration and support workers, should feel very proud. Feedback from those who have experienced cancer care and treatment is vital to improve services and we will be looking at the results of the survey in close detail to identify areas for further local improvements.”
