Yorkshire coast residents urged to voice opinions on how the NHS needs to change in their area
Residents along the Yorkshire coast are being urged to take part in a four-week conversation on social media and in-person focus groups about the future of the NHS in this area.
The ‘We Need to Talk’ public engagement lays bare some of the difficulties faced by the NHS, whilst giving people an opportunity to signal how they might want the NHS to change to meet the challenges of today and the demands of the future.
In a snap poll carried out by NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) ahead of the public engagement, which started on October 14, almost 63 per cent of the 428 people who responded said the NHS needed to change.
A spokesperson said: “We want to build a health and care system that’s fit to respond to today’s challenges and also be there to meet the demands of the coming decades.
"We all want the NHS to be here for us as we grow older as well as for our children and grandchildren.
"Despite all our best efforts, we know that we are not always providing the care you expect. Without action, we know many of the issues we’re facing will only get worse and we are concerned about the impact this would have on people’s health and care.
“Quite simply, demand (for our services) is outstripping supply.
"This is not inevitable though, especially if we act now to address the challenges head on.
"Before further developing our thinking, we want to know what matters most to you.”
The ICB wants your ideas on how it can:
•Use technology better
•Improve the way we plan and organise our workforce to boost efficiency, adaptability and job satisfaction
•Focus on preventing illness rather than just treating it
•Listen to your needs and involve everyone in this conversation
•Move more care into the community
•Ensure patient safety and consistent high-quality care everywhere
•Focus on what matters most
There’s further information about We Need to Talk and details of how people can get involved in the conversation at www.ourNHS.org as well as a link to a short survey.
People without access to the internet can request further information and a paper copy of the survey by calling 01482 672156 or by writing to (no stamp required): NHS Humber and North Yorkshire ICB, FREEPOST RTTL-HSBE-BLHL, Health House, Grange Park Lane, Willerby.