Hospital top for 'patient experience'

Naomi Gornall

IPSWICH: Ipswich Hospital is among the top performers in the region for providing a good patient experience.

According to a survey on user experience, the Heath Road hospital achieved an overall score of 71.7 percent - which places it fourth out of the 18 acute hospitals in the east of England.

The NHS User Experience Survey is made up of three elements - the NHS national patient survey programme, the NHS staff survey and written complaints data.

Acute hospitals across the UK are rated in eight categories, including access and waiting, whether the hospital shows dignity and respect, and whether it is a clean, comfortable and friendly place.

West Suffolk Hospital came second in the region after getting a score of 72.7 percent.

Andrew Reed, chief executive at Ipswich Hospital, said: “Getting it right for patients is our top priority and we are very pleased with the results of the survey.”

Carole Taylor-Brown, chief executive of NHS Suffolk, said: “As the healthcare commissioners for Suffolk, we work closely with both hospitals to ensure patients receive the best possible experience when they have to visit hospital. From waiting times to cleanliness, and respecting patients' dignity - getting these things right is fundamental to the NHS delivering excellent treatment and care in a timely manner.

“To see our local hospitals rated highly by patients and staff indicates that the work we are all doing is being recognised. We will strive to uphold these standards.”

What is your experience of Ipswich Hospital? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk.