Merton, Sutton and Mid-Surrey NHS – Analysis and summary of public consultation outcomes on proposed Clinical Service Strategy (CSS)

Client Challenge

Article 13 were asked to analyse, evaluate and summarise the outcome of a public consultation. The consultation was based on a new model of healthcare set out in the clinical services strategy (CSS), subsequently known as ‘Better Healthcare, Closer to Home’. Its aim was to deliver a new model of healthcare, more holistically across the region.

The consultation was principally looking at people’s views on the new model of care proposed for the area. This model included care closer to home, in GP surgeries and at local care hospitals, all providing a mix of clinics and facilities. It sought specifically to gain peoples views on the proposed model of a network of local care hospitals, supported by critical care hospitals, as well as the specific services delivered and locations.

What did we do?

Stakeholders, including lay members of the public and health professionals, from across Sutton & Merton, East Elmbridge and Mid Surrey were involved in the formal consultation, which included postal delivery questionnaires, letters sent directly to the project team, and responses generated by special interest groups and local politicians. There was large scope for conflict in this consultation, as the proposed model of care was seen to be isolating communities and stakeholders.

Article 13’s analysed over 3000 postal questionnaires, letters, email outputs from local consultation events, and special interest group submissions. Quantitative and qualitative analysis was carried out and emerging themes highlighted.

With a rich evidence base, Article 13 was able to summarise the key findings from the consultation into a 32 page report. The report served as a summary document for interested stakeholders. We also presented these findings to a stakeholder meeting. Here, stakeholders were able to question the research team and the ‘Better Health Care Closer to Home’ project team, regarding process and findings.

How did we break the cycle?

Alongside the analysis, Article 13 conducted an assurance of the consultation process which verified the rigour of the consultation process, adding credibility to the outcomes and findings. This was vitally important for such an emotive issue, affecting the care health services of people across a large geographical area.

© Article 13 2005