University Hospitals Plymouth receives outstanding score in cancer patient care survey
The NHS has published the results from the National Cancer Patient Experience Survey 2019. University Hospitals Plymouth has scored 8.9 out of 10 by cancer patients.
The Trust ranks 15th in the nation, with a total of 143 trusts taking part in the survey. The hospital has scored above the expected range in communication with patients* and team work**. This is due largely, to the Trust’s recent investment in cancer care, including the recruitment of more support workers and healthcare navigators that are there to answer any questions patients might have during their treatment.
Sian Dennison, Head of Nursing Cancer, said: “We are delighted with the survey results. It’s an honour to be one of the top ranked Trusts in the South West and receive such good feedback from our patients. The Trust’s recent investments in cancer care and treatment have been fruitful . We are determined to put our patients first and it shows.”
University Hospitals Plymouth has also increased the number of health and wellbeing events for cancer patients, empowering them to understand and manage their symptoms.
In the last year, the Trust recruited additional Cancer Nurse Specialists and invested in lung cancer diagnostics.
Patients have commented: “The staff/nurses at Plymouth were amazing even the student nurse - who came in with me to have a drain appointment - she didn't need to but came to hold my hand!”, “The staff involved were caring efficient and supportive I could not have asked for more”.
*Statement based on score on the following questions:
Q21. Patient got understandable answers to important questions all or most of the time
Q11. Patient felt they were told sensitively that they had cancer
Q13. Patient given easy to understand written information about the type of cancer they had
Q19. Patient given the name of a Cancer Nurse Specialist who would support them through their treatment
**Statement based on score on the following question:
Q56. Different people treating and caring for patient always work well together to give best possible care