Redesigning a local cancer patient experience survey to improve services and promote inclusion
To learn how healthcare professionals’ insights can inform the development of a local trust cancer patient experience survey (CPES)
To be aware of practical considerations in designing a CPES, including relevant domains, clarity of questions, accessibility formats and effective distribution methods
To consider how local CPES tools can complement national surveys by addressing gaps in patient feedback and supporting service improvements at trust level
The National Cancer Patient Experience Survey (CPES) in England captures patient views to identify where cancer care is working well and where improvements are needed. However, it represents only a sample of patients and may not reflect the full range of experiences. In response, some NHS trusts have implemented local CPES tools. This service evaluation explored healthcare professionals’ views of a trust CPES to identify ways to improve accessibility, content and reach. A total of 45 healthcare professionals working with patients who have cancer completed a survey on this topic, six of whom were also interviewed. Content analysis identified their support for key domains of the trust CPES such as diagnosis, clinical nurse specialist and cancer support worker input, holistic needs assessments, Macmillan Cancer information support services, and community support. Recommendations included using multiple formats (for example paper, online and braille), clearer questions, inclusive language and broader advertising strategies. The findings also emphasised the value of a continually open survey and feeding back results to patients and staff. This evaluation can inform the development of equitable, locally responsive patient experience tools.
