The Renal Unit at the Ulster Hospital has achieved an outstanding accolade, securing the top position in Northern Ireland and joint fourth place across the 67 Renal Centres in the United Kingdom in the UK Patient Reported Experience Measure (PREM) Scores survey.
The UK PREM survey is an annual, national assessment of kidney patients’ experiences across the United Kingdom. It aims to help Renal Unit teams understand how patients feel about their care, highlight areas for improvement from a patient perspective and provide a national benchmark of patient satisfaction.
Recognised for its exceptional standards, the Ulster Hospital Renal Unit consistently goes above and beyond to provide first-class care and treatment to all renal patients.
Patients expressed their gratitude and appreciation in their feedback, with one commenting, “Lots of lovely, friendly staff always there to help me, like part of the family.” Another patient shared, “I am really happy within my unit and find the staff helpful and friendly.”
While the survey highlighted overwhelmingly positive experiences, it also provided valuable insights into areas for improvement.
One patient noted, “The main issue is how uncomfortable the low chairs are in reception when waiting for transport home.” Another patient highlighted transport-related concerns, stating, “The lift into the dialysis unit means I get there anytime from 1 to 1.5 hours before being hooked up to the machine. This makes it a long day with four hours on dialysis and then a half-hour or longer wait to get home. But transport is appreciated.”
In response to this feedback, six new chairs have been purchased to enhance patient comfort, ensuring a more supportive environment for those awaiting treatment and transport.
Ulster Hospital Consultant Nephrologist, Dr John Smyth, welcomed the national recognition, stating, “These are outstanding results. Very well done to all our staff. Thank you all for your hard work and dedication to providing an excellent service for our patients.”
Consultant Nephrologist, Dr Niall Leonard, said, “It means so much to receive this feedback from our patients. It is reflective of an effective and happy multi-professional team, dedicated to providing the best possible patient experience.”
Renal Unit Manager, Amanda Byers, echoed this sentiment, adding, “We are delighted that the service user feedback has been so positive about the care and experience patients receive from our service. Being rated as the top renal centre out of 67 in the UK is testimony to the hard work and dedication of the staff.”
The Ulster Hospital Renal Unit’s ranking in the UK PREM survey reinforces its commitment to delivering the highest standard of patient-centred care, ensuring a positive experience for all those who rely on its services.