Cancer care in Gateshead receives top rating from patients

Cancer care at Gateshead has been praised by patients in a recent national survey of cancer patients in England.

Group photo of cancer services team in foyer of Gateshead hospital

Cancer care at Gateshead has been praised by patients in a recent national survey of cancer patients in England.

The National Cancer Patient Experience Survey is conducted each year and asks a range of questions about the care patients receive during their cancer journey, from first appointments to treatment and their ongoing care.

Patients gave Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust a rating of 9 out of 10 overall for their cancer care.

  • 95% of patients felt they received all the information they needed about cancer diagnostic tests
  • 94% of patients were given the name of a Cancer Nurse Specialist (CNS) who would support them through their treatment
  • 95% of patients felt they had all the information they needed prior to having an operation
  • 97% of patients always felt they were treated with respect and dignity whilst in hospital
  • 90% of patients felt they had all the information required prior to starting radiotherapy
  • 93% of patients felt they had all the information required prior to starting chemotherapy
  • 96% of patients felt that their GP was given enough information about their condition and treatment

Gill Findley, Chief Nurse and Professional Lead for Midwifery and AHPs said, “We are delighted to have received a high rating in this year’s cancer patient survey. This is a true testament to the staff, especially after an incredibly difficult few years during the pandemic. I would like to thank the staff for their hard work and dedication to their service.

“I am also pleased to see that patients felt supported during their cancer journey despite the pandemic and we are able to offer other ways of providing our service to ensure our patients receive the support they needed such as telephone clinics and dedicated cancer nurse specialist to support them through their treatment.”