Local Healthwatch stroke engagement

Summary

In February and March 2017 we spoke to people about how stroke services across West Yorkshire and Harrogate could be further improved to make sure they are fit for the future and meet peoples’ needs across the area.

Over 900 people completed the engagement survey and in partnership with other local Healthwatch services, we spoke to over 1500, providing us with many comments, all of which are very important to us.

Key findings

• Many people said that they would travel further if it meant they were able to receive the best treatment and to be treated by specialists; however, they wanted their rehabilitation to be available closer to home. Although some people were worried that if they had to travel further the extra journey time could negatively affect their health, and would make it more difficult for their family to visit them.
• Those who had experienced a stroke described the excellent levels of care that they received in hospital, from being seen quickly, to accessing the most appropriate treatments and being kept informed throughout. They talked about staff being willing to help, whilst recognising that some were extremely busy. It was also felt that there should not be a difference in care during the week and at the weekend.
• Many described how stroke can be a life changing event which can be difficult for the patient and their families to deal with. It was felt that there was a need to ensure that the patient and their family are provided with the appropriate levels of emotional support and advice.
• The valuable role of voluntary and community organisations specialising in stroke support, particular on hospital wards, was recognised in the report.
• Many felt that there was a need to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of a stroke, and what to do if you think someone is having a stroke.