Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust review of patient safety, privacy, dignity and experience whilst waiting in ambulances during delayed handover (October 2021)

Summary

This review by Healthcare Inspectorate Wales considers the impact of ambulance waits outside emergency departments on the overall experience of patients, which included their safety, care, privacy and dignity. It covers the period between 1 April 2020 and 31 March 2021, during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The report highlights that although patients were positive about their experience with ambulance crews, handover delays are having a detrimental impact upon the ability of the healthcare system to provide responsive, safe, effective and dignified care to patients. It makes 20 recommendations for consideration by the Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust, health boards and the Welsh Government.