Archived: HMP YOI Northumberland

A large selection of patient questionnaires were seen which contained positive feedback about the health services provided in HMP Northumberland.

Unfortunately, given the imminent change to the healthcare provider, posters and leaflets which had been previously available on the prison wings had been collected and were not visible at the time of our inspection.

Evidence was seen of 'User Voice', an external organisation, now managing internal patient council meetings which included a pre-meeting involving staff health representatives. Health presentations at inductions and the introduction of healthcare mentors were also now in place. Minutes from monthly operational and safer custody meetings highlighted good discussions of relevant health issues. Complex case registers had been created and regular meetings were taking place to review the individuals on that register. Holistic health plans were also in place. Patients told us that they had received health inductions and that complaint leaflets were readily available.

During our inspection we found that patients did not feel involved in decision making about their care and treatment. Information was limited regarding the services available and patients gave mixed feedback regarding how their privacy and dignity was maintained. We found evidence that clinical decisions were made with little or no communication with the patient.

Patients were generally positive about healthcare services and we found that treatment was appropriate and timely. Waiting lists were at acceptable levels and patients were able to access a wide range of clinics and medical input.

There was a lack of collaborative working between the different providers contracted to provide healthcare services which led to disjointed approaches to patients with complex needs. This was being addressed by the new manager but there had not been any impact from this work at the time of our visit.

Medication was handled and managed appropriately. There were regular medication reviews being carried out. Pharmacy services were not being utilised effectively by the wider healthcare service.

There were clear clinical governance and general monitoring systems. However the impact of this was not fully evident at the time of our inspection.

The complaints system was not advertised or understood by patients. There was a lack of collaborative working with regard to responding to complaints and no system in place for analysing trends and themes.