76% of patients feel a sense of empowerment leads to a better hospital experience [1], according to a recent YouGov and Sodexo Health & Care survey. Research also indicates that a positive patient mindset can enhance recovery rates [2], which in turn can improve patient flow to ease the workload on Trust staff. However, 36% of patients currently don't feel in control during their hospital visits [1].
Militsa Pribetich-Gill, Sodexo's Head of Product Innovation, emphasises the role of EFM teams in enhancing patient empowerment through technology, innovative design, diversity reflection, and sustainability.
So how can NHS EFM capitalise on opportunities to better empower their patients? Read on to find out.
Research underscores the importance of patient activity.
Merely getting out of bed can amplify muscle strength3, improve circulation4, and elevate mental health5, potentially hastening recovery.
By creating flexible communal areas in wards, EFM can motivate patients to rise, interact, and mirror healthy eating habits, further promoting recovery6.
You could ask yourself:
Modern hospital designs are evolving to be more intelligent, prioritising patient flow and task-driven processes.
Designs like the single corridor plan where patient rooms, treatment areas and other essential spaces are organised along a main walkway improve navigation, travel distance and cost due to the reduce number of interior walls7:
However, they can feel tunnel-like. So by considering the use of warm wall colours, natural light, art and decor, natural flooring, curtain partitions and noise reducing furniture, your estate can be made to feel more homely for patients.
You could ask:
Online surveys have transformed how we collect patient feedback on facilities management, but they can be retrospective and might not capture current patients' views across all demographics8.
Using Patient Ambassadors to directly interact with patients can highlight immediate concerns, like a malfunctioning shower, shaping their overall experience. Listening to their stories in real time informs quality improvement and enhances staff training.
You could think about:
Acute Trusts across the UK serve unique demographics, making it crucial to ensure facilities and services cater to diverse needs.
EFM teams can address this by doing things like creating menus that respect patients' cultures, introducing digital welcome guides tailored for each individual, understanding nuances in language, tone, directness, and temperament for respectful and relatable communication, and enriching teams with members reflecting the diverse backgrounds of patients.
It's essential to equip staff with the tools and knowledge for effective and empathetic interaction, so you could ask:
While traditional meal timings set around ward routine and medical teams have their place, your meal planning should reflect the diverse needs and cultures of your patients.
For example, if a patient has had a bad night, they may not want their breakfast first thing in the morning. Whereas another may have a craving for a particular comfort food.
You could consider new initiatives, such as:
It's essential to remember that while technology is advancing, many patients might approach it with caution. Our EFM teams play a pivotal role in bridging this gap, guiding patients towards embracing these changes.
Transparency is paramount. When our tasks involve using mobile devices, it's crucial to communicate the purpose to our patients. This ensures they don't feel sidelined or overlooked.
Clarity in roles is also essential, and uniforms play a critical role in this as evidenced by the NHS’ ‘National Uniform’ policy8. By clearly distinguishing uniforms, patients can easily identify and approach the right person for their questions, ensuring a seamless, supportive experience.
You could ask yourself:
As healthcare providers, it's your responsibility to ensure that your sustainable initiatives resonate with patient comfort and well-being.
You could think about the following:
By harnessing the power of design, understanding patient demographics, leveraging technology, and championing sustainability, EFM teams have the potential to redefine quality of care for patients.
As we move forward, the goal is clear: to create an environment where every patient feels valued, heard, and above all, empowered. However, you may need support to achieve your aims.
The Government Sourcing Playbook suggests outsourcing could be a way for the NHS to meet its long-term goals9.
"Organisations, such as Sodexo, have skills, resources, scale, and we need to use those”10.
With outsourcing support from Sodexo, you could create an EFM department that empowers its patients and staff alike for the continued success of your Trust.