The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has released the latest Adult Inpatient Survey results, offering insights into patient experiences across the UK.
Recent results showed that experiences of inpatient care have deteriorated since 2020. The findings from the 2023 survey are largely consistent with those from 2022 and 2021, following significant declines in nearly all areas surveyed in 2021 compared to 2020.
Most respondents reported positive interactions with doctors and nurses, noting that they were treated with respect, dignity, kindness, and compassion, and felt included in conversations. However, there has been a slight decrease in those receiving clear answers to their questions and feeling confident and trusting in their care.
Discharge from hospital continues to be a challenging aspect of care. Fewer respondents felt involved in decisions regarding their discharge, and less than half felt they were given adequate notice before leaving the hospital. More than four in ten were uncertain about their care arrangements after discharge.
Experiences related to hospital waiting times have also declined. While elective patients generally remain positive about the information they received while waiting for admission, there has been an increase in those feeling that the wait was too long. Although just under half of elective patients reported no change in their health while waiting, just over four in ten felt their health had deteriorated.
Dr. Emily Carter from NHS England acknowledged the overall positive feedback but emphasised the need for enhancements in communication, discharge procedures, and food quality. To address these areas, NHS trusts will focus on better staff training, streamlined discharge processes, improved meal quality, and updated pain management protocols.
For more detailed findings, visit the CQC website here
