Healthy choices!

Yes, people do want choice in our NHS- contrary to what the BMA might claim.

A new survey carried out by an independent research company on behalf of the Department of Health establishes patients do want choice. A great reposte to the BMA who have tried to claim otherwise. Its what our members working in health and social care know is right. We have been advocating more choice and more control for patients and citizens over their care.

The new survey of 5,000 people reveals that over 80 per cent of patients want more choice over how and where they are treated in the NHS and nearly three quarters of patients want more choice in who provides their hospital care.

Full results of the survey show that:

80.88 per cent of respondents want more choice in where they are treated in the NHS; 78.62 per cent of respondents want more choice in how they are treated in the NHS; 49.52 per cent of respondents were not aware that they can choose which hospital to go to for non-emergency treatment; 74.88 per cent of respondents wanted a choice over which hospital consultant is in charge of their care; 74.62 per cent of respondents wanted a choice over which hospital consultant is in charge over their children’s care.

Women and older people in particular want to see more patient choice in the NHS. Nine out of 10 people over the age of 55 want to have a greater say in how and where they are treated.

The Government need to understand this message and ensure that DH culture changes.

When Health Watch becomes as powerful as the BMA we will know things have changed. Until then Acevo members need to keep pushing this message.