One of the most rewarding things about being part of the Healthwatch network is seeing improvements to health and care services that are a direct result of listening to patients, acting on their feedback and involving them in solutions to problems.
The latest NHS data shows that a record number of people are waiting for care. However, it’s vital people still come forward this winter for the healthcare they need.
The Care Quality Commission has published its annual State of Care report, highlighting that a combination of the cost-of-living crisis and NHS workforce pressures risk ‘unfair care’ for many people.
With more and more appointments happening online, we've put together some tips on how to get the most out of the virtual health and care appointments both for patients and health and care professionals.
Around one in five GP visits are for non-medical problems. Many things that affect our health can’t be treated by doctors or medicine alone. This includes loneliness, money problems, housing, education or employment status. NHS social prescribing link workers can connect you to the right community groups and services to help support you.
NHS patients who have been waiting the longest for treatment will be offered the opportunity to travel to a different hospital, if it means they could be seen sooner.