Patients praise levels of care at Dorset County Hospital
22 October 2021
Patients have praised the level of care experienced at Dorset County Hospital.
The latest inpatient survey, carried out by the Picker Institute on behalf of the Care Quality Commission, captured the views and experience of 592 patients admitted to DCH in November 2020.
The results revealed that 86% of patients rated their experience as a 7/10 or more; 99% felt treated with respect and dignity and 98% had confidence and trust in the staff.
The hospital was rated significantly higher in eight of the questions in comparison to previous years.
Patients particularly highlighted how they were able to keep in touch with family and friends throughout the COVID-19 restrictions, the quality of the food, discussions around discharge and being given written and printed information when leaving the hospital.
The latest results come after the 2020 Urgency and Emergency Care Survey ranked Dorset County Hospital as one of the top 10 in the country for emergency care.
Areas where suggested improvements can be made included giving further privacy when discussion conditions and treatment, further explanation on how patients might feel after their procedure and getting more help from staff to eat meals.
Deputy Chief Executive of Dorset County Hospital Nick Johnson said: “The survey was conducted at a time of unprecedented pressure on our staff, so it is fantastic to see such positive feedback from our patients. This reflects the tremendous efforts and dedication of our staff across the organisation to continue to provide outstanding care.
“Patient feedback is incredibly important in helping us to continue to shape and improve the care and experience we provide to our patients and we will be taking steps to address areas where improvements are needed.”