The Importance of Accessible Chippenham Hospital Patient Information
The provision of accessible patient information is a key aspect of healthcare systems across the world. It is particularly essential for hospitals to make sure they deliver accessible information to their patients. In the UK, there is a specific emphasis on accessible information, and since 2016, the NHS has had a legal duty to provide information in formats that are suitable for people with varying physical disabilities and learning disabilities.
Why is Accessible Patient Information Important?
There are several reasons why accessible patient information is crucial to hospitals such as Chippenham Hospital. Firstly, it helps patients understand their condition and treatment plan, which is a vital aspect of patient engagement. The better a patient understands their condition, the more likely they are to follow the recommended treatment plan and take an interest in their healthcare.
Secondly, accessible information helps to reduce anxiety levels. When a patient is unwell, they can often feel stressed and overwhelmed. Accessible information can help to make them feel more at ease and in control, which reduces their overall levels of anxiety.
Thirdly, accessible information allows patients to ask questions and participate fully in clinical discussions with their healthcare professionals. When patients receive clear, easy-to-understand information, it puts them in a better position to engage with their healthcare professionals effectively.
Lastly, providing accessible information can help hospitals to avoid legal complications. The 2010 Equality Act and the 2018 General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) both provide that the failure of healthcare organizations to provide accessible information could constitute discrimination against those with disabilities.
What Formats Can be Used to Provide Accessible Information?
There are different formats that can be used to provide accessible information, including printed documents, emails, websites, apps, and interactive PDFs. For those who have communication and learning difficulties, some of the available formats include easy-read documents, braille, audio recordings, British Sign Language videos, and picture-based communication aids.
Case Studies
Chippenham Hospital has a duty to provide accessible information consistent with the standards defined in the NHS Accessible Information Standard. In a case study involving a patient named Sarah, she has a hearing impairment that requires the use of hearing aids to help her communicate. Every time she had a hospital visit, she found it challenging to obtain information in an accessible format. She often received jargon-filled letters or telephone conversations that she struggled to understand.
Sarah’s healthcare trusted lived the values of accessible information, which meant they always made sure to provide information in a format that Sarah could access without difficulty. This could mean using clear communication, ensuring any documents produced are easy to understand, or arranging for interpreters and translators.
As a result of the hospital taking this approach, Sarah felt more comfortable and confident using healthcare services. Moreover, Sarah no longer worries about receiving information from the hospital since the health officials know and respect her needs.
Conclusion
The provision of accessible patient information is essential to ensure that healthcare systems are inclusive to everyone. Accessible information helps patients to feel more in control of their healthcare, reduces stress levels, enables full participation with healthcare professionals, and complies with the legal requirements set out in the UK. Providing patient information in various formats allows patients to have greater information access and is vital for improving patient outcomes. So Chippenham Hospital must prioritize delivering accessible information to its patients.
