Projects aim to improve cancer care

A RANGE of projects is under way to improve services for cancer patients in the Lothians.

As part of a three-year deal with the Scottish Government, the pilots are aimed at boosting different elements of oncology care, from standards of care to individual experience.

Staff will also be asked their views, with evidence gathered to be used nationally in years to come.

Already the views of teenagers have been sought in the brain cancer units at the Western General, while more than 70 patients and staff at St John's Hospital's head and neck department have been surveyed.

The first phase is also under way in trying to better understand the experience of patients with learning disabilities.

Patient experience service improvement manager at NHS Lothian, Scott Taylor, said: "Experience-based design aims to bring patients and staff together to work in partnership to improve care and services."