RCN praises staff for improvements in cancer care

Published: 17 August 2012

The Royal College of Nursing has welcomed the results of the second national cancer patient experience survey, published by the Department of Health.

The survey found that 88 per cent of patients rated their care as excellent or very good, with 98 trusts improving on the results of the previous survey.

Dr Peter Carter, RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary, said the RCN was pleased the survey recognises the important contribution that health care staff and especially specialist nurses make to patients with cancer.

“These nurses provide vital care as well as saving the NHS money in the long-term. Every patient with cancer who needs it should have guaranteed access to one-to-one specialist nursing care. Patients know, as we do, that specialist nurses provide a lifeline in helping them to understand conditions and treatments, as well as in preventing complications and admissions to hospital,” he said.

The RCN highlighted the need for patients and relatives to receive not just cutting-edge treatment but also clear communication, empathy and dignity.

 Read more about the survey findings on the Department of Health website.