Health consultation (From Penarth Times)

Health consultation

PENARTH residents are being asked what they think about the quality of the local health service.

The Commission for Health Improvement (CHI) is seeking comments from local people as part of its assessment of the Cardiff and Vale NHS Trust.

The Trust's area includes the hospitals at Llandough, Barry and the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff.

Individual or small group meetings will be held in Cardiff on Monday, December 3 and Tuesday, December 4, and in Barry on Monday, December 10 and Tuesday, December 11. The CHI wants to hear about people's experiences with the Trust, whether it be to do with management, provision or the quality of services.

At the end of the assessment, CHI will publish a report outlining what action needs to be taken at the trust.

As well as local people, the CHI will talk to trust staff, other people who care for patients, patient representatives, managers and others.

Peter Homa, chief executive of CHI, said: "These assessments are intended to celebrate success, address shortcomings and share good practice. We expect a great deal of learning to emerge from the experience and want as many people as possible to contribute their views.

"Our aim is to conduct the assessments in a supportive and inclusive manner."

During the 24-week assessment, the CHI team will build up a picture of what the Trust is doing to ensure high quality care for its patients and where it might improve services.

To arrange a confidential appointment, send comments or for more information, phone CHI on 0845 601 3012 quoting reference 'Cardiff and Vale'.