Patients express concerns about dismissive treatment in NHS care

In a recent interview with the British Medical Journal, England's Patient Safety Commissioner, Dr. Henrietta Hughes, highlighted the issue of patients, particularly women, being 'gaslighted, dismissed, and fobbed off' when expressing concerns about NHS care. Dr. Hughes, who assumed her role in 2022, emphasized that women have been patronized and had their worries disregarded, indicating a need for cultural change within the NHS. Her position, funded by the Department of Health and Social Care, was established following a report examining scandals involving hormone pregnancy tests, sodium valproate, and pelvic mesh implants. Dr. Hughes, a former GP and national guardian for the NHS, stressed the importance of simplifying access to help for patients and ensuring their voices are heard. She expressed concern over the dismissive and patronizing attitude towards female patients raising concerns, noting that they are sometimes labeled as 'difficult women.' The Patient Safety Commissioner aims to create a Patient Safety Atlas of Powers to clarify the roles of various patient safety organizations and regulators, as she believes there is a lack of coordination among them. The implementation of Martha's Rule, named after Martha Mills who tragically died of sepsis in 2021, allows families to seek a second opinion if they feel their concerns about a relative's care are not being taken seriously. Dr. Hughes emphasized the importance of patient anecdotes as indicators of systemic issues within the NHS, stating that patients are often gaslighted, dismissed, and fobbed off when raising concerns. The Department of Health and Social Care acknowledged the need to prioritize patient safety to ensure that all individuals receive high-quality and respectful care within the NHS. Dr. Hughes faces the challenge of effecting lasting cultural change within the NHS, combating the prevailing resistance to altering established practices. She aims to address the issue of patients not being listened to or treated with respect, emphasizing the government's commitment to prioritizing patient safety. The Patient Safety Commissioner's efforts underscore the ongoing need for improved communication, accountability, and responsiveness within the healthcare system to better serve patients and address their concerns effectively.