“Better access to and quality of hospital care needed” - People tell Patient and Client Council.

In advance of the Compton Review, the Patient and Client Council has informed the Review team what the top Health and Social Care priorities are for over 3,400 people in Northern Ireland.  People want better access to and quality of hospital care.

Maeve Hully, Chief Executive of the Patient and Client Council says

“There is no doubt people value the Health and Social Care services they receive, however they have identified access to appropriate hospital care as a major issue.  They are particularly concerned about access to out of hours services, including GP services.  The need for timely access to high quality hospital care is a major issue.

“People have expressed concern about the standard of cleanliness in our hospitals, about the feeding and care of elderly patients, and about appropriate use of scarce hospital resources.  Care of older people in the community is a priority.

“The timing of this project coincides with a major review of Health and Social Care in Northern Ireland requested by the Minister for Health.  People have told the Patient and Client Council what their priorities are for the Health and Social Care services.  What is needed now is action to address the concerns presented in this report.” 

The Patient and Client Council will continue to work with patients, clients, carers and communities to inform key decision makers on what people want and need from their Health and Social Care services.

The report detailing the People’s Priorities for Health and Social Care in Northern Ireland can be accessed through the Patient and Client Council website, www.patientclientcouncil.hscni.net or hard copies are available on request by calling 0800 917 0222.