Local AMs welcome report showing positive cancer care experiences

A survey showing 9 out of 10 cancer patients in Wales think the care they receive is either “very good” or “excellent”, has today been welcomed by Swansea’s Labour AMs Mike Hedges and Julie James.

The first ever Welsh cancer patient experience survey was published this week and reported the views of more than 7,000 cancer patients in Wales. The survey showed very positive experience of aspects of care:

• Regarding dignity; 85% said they were always treated with respect and dignity by staff, 87% had confidence and trust in the doctors and nurses caring for them and 94% said they had enough privacy when being treated;
• In the coordination of care; 88% of people were given the name of a Clinical Nurse Specialist who would be in charge of their care;
• 92% of patients said their clinical nurse specialist definitely listened carefully to them;
• 92% got understandable answers to important questions all or most of the time from their Clinical Nurse Specialist.

Speaking on the survey results, Swansea East AM Mike Hedges said:

“Many of us like myself will know friends and family that have been affected by cancer, and will therefore appreciate just how important it is to receive first–rate care and treatment when fighting the disease.

“I’m reassured to see the results of our first ever Welsh cancer patient experience survey, which show that the overwhelming majority of cancer patients are pleased with the care and service they receive in our Welsh NHS.”

Swansea West AM Julie James added:

“Despite these encouraging responses, it’s important we are not complacent and continually strive for improvement for all our patients and their families.

“There are some new ideas that have come out of this survey that are certainly worth exploring, and I hope it will prove to be a valuable sounding board for years to come.”

Health Minister Mark Drakeford said:

“I am heartened to see so many patients had a positive experience and the evidence of effective systems being in place alongside support to individuals is very clear. This is the first year this survey has taken place in Wales and the NHS as a whole will need to listen to and act upon the voices of patients.”