CareWatch has today launched a wide-ranging survey seeking the views of islanders in accessing Primary Care services which can be completed online www.islandglobalresearch.com/primarycare . The results will be used to inform an ongoing review by the States of Guernsey of the funding and model of Primary Care. This work commenced last year with proposals due to be presented to the States' Assembly this Autumn.
Formed in 2017 as an independent community forum, CareWatch has been involved since the Review started as a key stakeholder. To support their role in ensuring islanders' voices are heard and represented in policy and service development, CareWatch has decided to launch a survey open to all members of the community to gather an objective body of evidence detailing how and when islanders access Primary Care and their experiences.
David Le Poidevin, Interim Chairman of CareWatch said:
"We all know how important primary care is in the wider health and care system. It is our first port of call when unwell, but more fundamentally, the relationships that we build with primary care is what supports our health and wellbeing over the longer term. Whether GPs, community pharmacies, physiotherapists as well as the Emergency Department, we access primary care in different ways and at different times, and we want to find out more about islanders' experiences.
As an independent panel designed to ensure diverse perspectives are heard and included in the development of health and care policy and services, we're keen to hear from as many islanders as possible about their views on primary care. While our membership reflects a broad cross-section of the community, and we have strong links to other representative bodies, the survey provides opportunity for all islanders to contribute towards this exciting opportunity to positively shape the future provision of services."
Deputy Al Brouard, President of the Committee forHealth & Social Care said:
"I thank CareWatch for carrying out a survey. Speaking to CareWatch was one of the first actions coming out of the Review's Working Group, recognising the important role that they can fulfil in engaging with all parties to ensure the final results are a useful addition to our understanding."
"How, when and at what cost, people can access health care is an important consideration for any community. The information gathered through this Survey will be one consideration in shaping our final recommendations."
The Survey has been commissioned through Island Global Research Ltd and is open until 25th March. It can be completed online at www.islandglobalresearch.com/primarycare or a paper copy is available on request by telephone 01481 716227.
