Cancer Services for Isle of Wight Residents: Co-ordination, Travel and Urgent Assistance

Summary

This time there was a focus on three parts of people's experience which had featured particularly strongly in responses to the 2015 survey. 

Accordingly, there were questions on the level of co-ordination between services, on arrangements for cross-Solent travel, and on assistance when help was urgently needed with unexpected symptoms. 

Key findings

• Responses to the more recent survey suggested some decline in the consistency of case management since early 2016. Experiences were particularly variable of information on other sources of support, for example community services
• Cross-Solent travel continues to be a source of stress for many patients who make regular journeys. Responses suggested some differences between mainland hospitals in the extent to which they accommodate the travel needs of Isle of Wight patients
• Those needing assistance with unexpected symptoms reported a predominantly positive experience, but concerns remain about the process of admission and discharge when a stay at St Marys Hospital is required.