Concern about cancelled operations during lockdown revealed by Peterborough Healthwatch survey

The group says communication with patients and users of health and care services across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough needs to be a priority as local services restart after the peak of the coronavirus pandemic.

First findings from the survey show overwhelming support for health and care professionals and other key workers.

However, people have also expressed concerns about cancelled services and procedures during Covid-19 – and are worried about how these delays will affect their illness and prognosis.

The survey is still running and a full report will be published in the autumn.

But the first 500-plus responses have been analysed and provide a snapshot of how people have managed their health and care in these difficult times.

Initial findings show a mixed picture, including:

A third of people put off seeking help for their health – for minor problems and potentially serious conditions

Three out of four people said their mental health or wellbeing had been affected in some way.

Most people who had used health services had had a good or excellent experience.

Others expressed concern about services suddenly stopping and poor communication about changes.

The local Healthwatch is the independent champion for people using health and social care services in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.

And CEO, Sandie Smith, said the survey data will go back to local service providers and planners to help them to continue to deliver good quality care across our area.

She said: “It’s clear from these first findings that local people really value and have huge gratitude for the people that have helped them during the pandemic.

“From NHS staff and care home workers to all the volunteers who have been working so hard to support people in their communities.

“But it’s also very clear that there is quite a lot of anxiety and worry about their treatment and appointments.

“So as the healthcare system starts to put itself back together again, we are asking that communications with patients is at the top of the priority list and that the information is clear and people know exactly what to expect.”

Read the first Healthwatch survey briefing here

Healthwatch has stressed it is not too late to take part in the survey.

Visit Healthwatch Cambridgeshire’s website to have your say about your health, care and community support experiences during the pandemic.

It takes ten minutes to take the survey online here

Or call Healthwatch on 0330 355 1285 for a paper copy or to do the survey by phone.