In-patients endorse Hinchingbrooke Hospital food and staff

HARD on the heels of being voted one of the most popular hospitals in the country with the local population, a survey of in-patients has underlined their confidence in the treatment of those who have to stay in Hinchingbrooke.

The results of the Ipsos MORI survey of the catchment population were released two weeks ago, followed this week by a Healthcare Commission survey of in-patients.

Nearly 70 per cent of patients responded to the survey - a surprisingly high number considering that there were more than 60 questions and that three-quarters of Hinchingbrooke's in-patients are elderly.

The answers to 20 of the questions put the hospital in the top 20 per cent of acute trusts across England, and just one - the length of time between seeing the GP about referral and admission - in the bottom 20 per cent. The answers to the remaining questions put Hinchingbrooke in the 60 per cent in between.

Patients were particularly impressed by the standard of hospital food, confidence and trust in the hospital's doctors, being involved in decisions about treatment, having someone to talk to about concerns and worries and the information given to patients on leaving hospital, such as written materials on medications and things to look out for afterwards.

Chief executive Mark Millar said: "The annual in-patient survey gives us essential information on what we are doing right - and where we can be making further improvements.

"Our staff should be very proud of the fact that our patients think we are doing extremely well in a number of areas, and we will be looking at the results in more detail to identify and address any issues our patients may be having with their care.

"We know that patients are becoming increasingly discerning about their healthcare, and this survey, along with the feedback we get directly from patients, helps to ensure we continue to meet their needs.