Top marks from patients for North East's NHS cancer teams
Cancer patients have praised the care they received from NHS teams in the North East, new survey data shows.
NHS England’s latest National Cancer Patient Experience Survey found that no area of the service scored below the expected range – with patients rating services in the region above the national average in 25 areas, including being told their diagnosis sensitively, being involved in treatment decisions, support from hospital staff and confidence that their care teams worked well together.
Many patients highlighted the kindness, compassion and professionalism of NHS staff and said they felt listened to, trusted their care teams and received clear information throughout their treatment.
Patients also reported "positive experiences” of communication with healthcare professionals and being treated with dignity and respect.
The survey also identified opportunities for improvement, include enhancing emotional support after treatment, helping manage long-term side effects, increasing awareness of support available in local communities and
promoting opportunities to take part in cancer research.
NHS organisations across the North East and North Cumbria work together through the area’s Cancer Alliance and Provider Collaborative.
Ken Bremner, chair of the collaborative, said: “It’s encouraging to see so many patients reporting positive experiences of cancer care across our region.
"These findings reflect the dedication, professionalism and compassion shown by NHS staff every day.
“One of the strengths of the collaborative is our ability to work together across organisational boundaries.”
He added: “While we are pleased with this feedback, we know there is always more to do and remain committed to listening to patients and ensuring everyone affected by cancer receives the best possible care and support, wherever they are treated in the region.”