Time to trust the “good” news in the NHS

There is a constant flow of bad news stories for the NHS in recent months and it is certainly increasing people’s fears of going into Hospital.

The “perception” is naturally negative because we seldom read positive stories. Newspapers sell best with horror headlines.

It reminds me of the reputation of the Chemical Industry, based on occasional headlines that are remembered and little credit is given.

Looking at the current standing of some NHS Foundation Trusts around the UK, which are graded much like schools for performance and financial stability, it is true that some look beyond help as a result of poor management.

A “big beast” like the NHS is bound to have plenty of Issues that are newsworthy and no-one faces more pressures than our Hospitals.

What saddens me is the suggestion that Nurses are selected for academic standards but they lack warmth and empathy.

To suggest that a bright nurse who chose this vocation, when they might have earned more elsewhere, would lack care or kindness smacks of an Insult.

Such generalisations are unkind, unfair and largely untrue.

Have I ever encountered a poor nurse?

Of course I have but I have met hundreds of brilliant, devoted and hard working ones too.

No hospital is without challenges or occasional errors.

I make this point because I don’t want to mislead anyone into thinking I am suggesting perfection when I cite Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust as outstanding.

I know they are but the gradings they achieve prove they are.

Whilst other Hospitals might be charged with putting finance and targets before patient care....the first and last priority that matters in Barnsley is best quality care and outcome.

It may be true that in years past, less confidence might have been expressed but if Hospital care is needed you are getting as good as you would expect anywhere in the Country when you arrive at Barnsley.

The Board of Directors are gifted but the medical staff are the real heroes.

If the NHS wants a good working model of care and competence they would do well to look at the Barnsley approach.

If caring is what matters you are in good hands in Barnsley.

At a time of anxiety you will be reassured and be diagnosed with speed.

Whatever the restraints or pressures, your care is uppermost in everyone’s minds and the culture is to get great satisfaction from getting you well again.

Credit where it is due....but don’t expect a headline giving credit anytime soon!

We are still the best in the World.