IMPROVING THE EXPERIENCE OF CANCER PATIENTS ACROSS THE UK 

In 2011, an NHS Patient Experience Framework document was created that contains targets for Patient Experience Managers working in NHS Trusts around the UK. Download the pdf here

After discovering that drinking more water reduced my sickness and side effects whilst on intensive chemo, I have been working closely with the team at Great Western Hospital, Swindon on a pilot project to raise awareness of the importance of hydration and advising on ways to help patients maintain a positive mindset during treatment.

Stage 1 is completed – poster campaigns aimed at both patients and staff posters are in and around the cancer unit at GWH. A Think Hydration video is in the waiting area and feedback so far is excellent, lots of patients are understanding the benefits and drinking more water!

Stage 2 is almost completed – we are adding positive reading materials, water-less wash products and other useful items to trolleys that the 400 strong team of volunteers are taking into all the wards.

Stage 3 – As a Patient Experience Consultant, I am on a mission to improve upon and implement similar projects across the UK helping Patient Experience and Voluntary Services Managers understand the patients’ point of view, what they need (non-clinical) to help them recover and stay well – therefore saving the NHS time and money, whilst achieving their targets.