1. Cost of living: People are increasingly avoiding NHS appointments and prescriptions

    News -

    The number of people avoiding an NHS appointment because they can’t afford travel almost doubled between October and December as the cost of living crisis is forcing many to change how they use health and care services.

    Over a third (39%) of people say the changes they have made to their lives due to the cost of living crisis have affected their mental health.

    • Women are disproportionately affected by spiralling costs, with 35% saying their mental health has got worse over the last two months, compared to 26% of men.

  2. 'Referrals black hole’ - new findings of people’s experiences of GP referrals

    News -

    One in five people we spoke to with a GP referral for specialist care had bounced back to general practice. This suggests potentially serious issues with referral processes. Healthwatch England are calling for more to be done to understand people’s experience of getting a referral.

  3. Shaping our workplan: What matters to you?

    News -

    Each year, your local Healthwatch puts together a work programme that reflects the health and social care needs of the area.

  4. Getting health-related help during Bank Holidays

    Advice and Information -

    Throughout this coming May there will be multiple bank holidays, meaning that some services, including ourselves, will be closed or opening with reduced hours.

  5. Only 7% of people had a good understanding of gynaecological symptoms before experiencing them

    News -

    When asked if they had a good understanding of gynaecological issues before it happened to them or a friend or family member:
    • Only 5% said they had a good understanding of gynaecological cancers
    • Only 7% said they had a good understanding of gynaecological symptoms
    • 5% said they had a good understanding of HPV (human papilloma virus)
    • 15% said they had a good understanding of cervical screening

  6. Living with Long-term Conditions Report

    Report -

    We spoke to 197 people in Stoke-on-Trent who are living with a long-term condition(s) to find out more about their experiences.

  7. Cancellations of NHS care having serious impacts on two thirds of patients, new data shows.

    News -

    · Impact of NHS pressures revealed in a new survey of 1084 people whose care has been cancelled this year.
    · Over one in three, 39%, have experienced cancellations or postponements of care two or more times.
    · Disruptions to care disproportionately affect unpaid carers, neurodivergent people, and those on lower incomes, widening existing health inequalities.
    · Healthwatch England urges healthcare leaders to act on the number of cancellations, especially those that occur at the last minute, and ensure more significant support for those most affected.

  8. Third of people in England lack confidence they can access critical NHS services

    News -

    Healthwatch England has warned that people need more confidence that the NHS can provide timely care as the winter period approaches. A third of adults in England lack confidence that they can access timely care, including GP services, mental health support and hospital care.

  9. Living with Parkinson's Disease Report

    Report -

    We spoke to 39 people in Stoke-on-Trent who are either living with Parkinson's disease or are a carer for someone who is. We found out about their experiences of receiving support, care and treatment.

  10. Can I access my GP records online?

    Advice and Information -

    From 31 October 2023, GP surgeries must give patients online access to their new health record entries. Find out what information is in your record and how to access it.

  11. Referrals and your right to choose

    Advice and Information -

    Did you know you can choose which hospital you go to when referred for a test, diagnosis, or treatment? Find out how.

  12. What is social prescribing?

    Advice and Information -

    NHS social prescribing link workers can connect you to the right community groups and services to help support you.

  13. How to get the most out of your GP appointment

    Advice and Information -

    Do you struggle to speak to your doctor about your medical concerns? You’re not alone. Take a look at our top tips to make the most of your GP appointment.

  14. Registering with your GP: understanding your rights

    Advice and Information -

    You've told us that you've experienced problems registering with a GP. This article explains more about your rights and what to do if you're refused the right to register.

  15. How do I get a fit note?

    Advice and Information -

    Find out what a ‘fit note’ is, when you might need one and how to get one.

  16. What is flu and how do I get the flu vaccine?

    Advice and Information -

    Understanding the symptoms of flu and what the flu vaccine is helps you make informed decisions about your health.

  17. What help can you get to pay for your prescriptions?

    Advice and Information -

    The cost of living crisis has put many people under financial strain, and prescription costs are more than some can afford. Find out what help is out there to help you cover the cost of your medication.

  18. Accessing health and care services when you live alone - Healthwatch England

    News -

    We explore the three main challenges people face accessing health and care services when they live alone with limited or no support.