A detailed analysis of the results of consultation on stroke services in West Surrey has been published albeit a decision has yet to be made known.402 questionnaires were returned, 178 people attended 13 events and there were 93 individual responses one of which was mine (see earlier blog). Geographically the responses from Woking, Weybridge and Chertsey, Staines and East Hampshire were small. Guildford and Waverly dominated.

Considering the following 3 statements:

• Access to seven day specialist stroke services should be provided at Frimley Park Hospital and St Peter’s Hospital to enable more people to survive a stroke and minimise risk of disability 
• Seven day clinics for transient ischaemic attacks (TIA) should be provided at Frimley Park Hospital and St Peter’s Hospital as part of the specialist stroke service
• The reason for concentrating in-hospital stroke specialist rehabilitation services in fewer hospitals in West Surrey is justified and supported

Overall the results were:

• ·         First statement 77% disagreed/strongly disagreed, 21% agreed/strongly agreed
• ·         Second statement 74% disagreed/strongly disagreed, 21% agreed/strongly agreed
• ·         Third statement 83% disagreed/strongly disagreed, 15% agreed/strongly agreed

 Geographically:

• In Guildford, Waverley and East Hampshire the majority of respondents disagreed with the statements but a significant proportion of respondents supported them.
• In Woking, the majority of respondents agreed with statements but a significant proportion disagreed.
• Responses from Weybridge & Chertsey and Staines were very low but agreement was almost 100%

 Most common themes were:

• Concerns about removal of services from Royal Surrey, preference to position some stroke services there and concerns about the hospital’s future
• Importance of timely treatment
• Recognition that specialist workforce and equipment has benefits, with differences of opinion on location
• Importance of equitable access but concerns that plans create inequity
• References to travel distance and time with implications for timely treatment, visitor access, patient wellbeing and public transport
• Ambulance availability and concerns about SECAMB.

 All very predictable. 

National Elderly-Friendly Quality Marks have just been awarded to Hindhead and Ewhurst wards in the Royal Surrey. This means that the Royal Surrey is home to three of the 26 wards which have been awarded nationally. The awards are are given by the Royal College of Psychiatrists. The award is based on assessors collecting information from patients, carers, visitors, ward staff and hospital managers and thus not lightly given. Myself and two fellow governors were involved in checking the wards for cleanliness, maintenance, general environment, presence of dementia friendly features and food quality. I can therefore testify directly to the justification for this national recognition - well deserved.