Figures indicate success of patient-led hospital inspection scheme

The Department of Health has released figures highlighting the success of its patient-led inspection programme, which was launched in April 2013.

Since this time, more than 5,000 patients have carried out around 4,600 ward inspections at over 1,300 sites across the country, with every eligible trust agreeing to take part in the voluntary programme.

The aim of this scheme is to monitor trusts' performance on issues that matter most to patients, such as the provision of a clean, safe environment for treatment, tasty nutritious food and high standards of privacy and dignity.

Changes are already being seen as a result of the inspections – including the installation of new signs and benches at St James's University Hospital and Leeds General Infirmary – while 90 percent of inspectors said they would be willing to take part again.

In a letter to NHS chief executives, health minister Dr Dan Poulter said: "The NHS has embraced the need for more patient feedback – these are the seeds of lasting culture change."

This comes as part of wider government efforts to ensure that NHS patients are treated with the requisite amount of respect, dignity and compassion.