As part of a Healthwatch England grant to support insight to help the development of the South West London Health and Care Plan, we spoke to respiratory patients in community settings in Croydon as well as outpatients in St Georges and St Helier hospitals. We spoke to over 40 patients in three days of research at six locations and presented their feedback at the South West London NHS |Clinical Conference last month.
Most patients would like swifter referrals, more information about the pathway process to diagnosis and beyond. They also welcome opportunities to be informed and self-manage their condition, avoiding the use of medication if possible and also would welcome non-medical support including community training and support.
