The top four things people in Rochdale would like to see improved in local NHS services
The top four things people in Rochdale would like to see improved were:
- Individuals being able to access the help and treatment they need when they want it
- providing tailored support to individuals;
- increasing the use of technology for booking appointments and
- helping people look after their health so they can remain in their own home
Their views were shared as part of Healthwatch Rochdale’s What Would You Do? campaign and the findings are revealed in a report published today.
More than 250 Rochdale residents, patients and their families took part in ‘What Would You do?’ activities, which launched in March to encourage people in the borough to share their views about how extra money from the Government should be spent on local NHS services.
The public were asked to give their views about how local services could improve, and to share ideas about how the NHS can help people live healthier lives and take more control of their care.
“The Government is investing an additional £20 billion a year in the NHS as part of the NHS Long Term Plan. We were asked to help find out what local people thought was the best way for the NHS in Rochdale to invest in the right services as part of this plan."
“It was wonderful to listen to so many people keen to make a difference in our local NHS. These views are all in the report and we will now monitor how the local NHS responds.”
Local mum of two Karen, who has Multiple Sclerosis, shared her views about local NHS services. She would like to see more joined-up care and better use of technology. She said: “I think services need to be joined up to provide adequate support to promote health and wellbeing. If you are chronically ill, care should be designed around the patients, with pathways of care considered to meet the needs of the patient to help them stay well.
“I have seen technology play an important role in offering support to those with chronic illnesses. Online groups can provide immediate support and give you a perspective. It’s not a replacement for speaking to a professional when really needed but should be an extra support mechanism.”