Campaign to boost patients' knowledge about care

The initiative encourages patients to gain a better understanding of their treatment

A hospital trust has started a campaign to help patients ask questions and better understand their treatment.

The new initiative 'It's OK to Ask' from The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, encourages patients to find out more about their care and gain a better understanding of what is being recommended to them.

People should not feel embarrassed if they do not know something and should not leave appointments confused about their care plan, said Garry Perry from the trust.

"By encouraging patients to ask questions, we aim to share knowledge, build their confidence and ultimately improve their health outcomes", he added.

The campaign prompts three main questions for patients to consider and ask staff:

• What is my main problem?

• What do I need to do?

• Why is it important I do this?

He acknowledged it could even be "even more challenging" for patients with sensory difficulties or for who English is not their first language, to ask questions about their care.

Mr Perry said the campaign would support staff to take the action needed to help patients understand.