Outcome C1
Continue to innovate and transform the accessibility of patient services by embedding inclusive design (facilities, services and practices).
Introduction of new EQIA template
NHS GJ has redesigned our EQIA template to create a more user friendly and engaging approach to conducting assessments. The new template follows a 9-stage process to identify positive, negative and neutral impacts associated with the introduction of, or amendment to, an existing policy, practice, function or service. We have also included a traffic light impact rating scale to illustrate where action is required to remove, manage or mitigate barriers for people represented by a Protected Characteristic.
The template now includes an integrated assessment for the Fairer Scotland Duty where we explore health inequalities through the lens of socioeconomic disadvantage. In addition, there is also a dedicated section focusing on care experience.
Throughout the template we have also embedded links to relevant legislation, policy and guidance to provide context and also insight to those who are undertaking the assessment. The template has also now been adopted by Healthcare Improvement Scotland.
Development of new EQIA eLearning module
In order to support the rollout of the new EQIA template, NHS GJ has developed a bespoke eLearning module. The module was introduced in May 2022 and has already been completed by 650 staff.
EQIA Governance
We have implemented a revised governance structure that requires the completion of an EQIA at the scoping phase of a programme or project. This ensures that considerations on equality, diversity and inclusion are reviewed and any issues identified prior to approval being granted.
Over the next 2 years, we have ambitious plans to rollout additional EQIA training via a webinar series with the ultimate aim of creating EQIA Champions across the organisation.
Innovations
NHS GJ was the first healthcare provider globally to introduce the WelcoME app for service users with a disability. This took the form of a 6-month pilot study between May and November 2021 which included Eye Centre patients.
During the trial, a total of 10 service users requested assistance via the app. Feedback from patients and staff was positive and a review is currently underway to decide whether to embed it across all hospital divisions as business as usual. WelcoME provides a platform for NHS GJ service users to outline their specific accessibility requirements in advance of their arrival. We are notified of the visit request and will be given an overview of the visitor’s condition. This includes photos to assist with identification, along with disability awareness support materials for common and less well-known conditions to ensure the most person-centred experience possible.
Hospital expansion
NHS Golden Jubilee has embedded the principles of inclusive design within the hospital expansion programme, encompassing phase 1 Eye Centre and phase 2 Surgical Centre.
We have engaged with key stakeholders from third sector organisations representing marginalised groups to develop an innovative wayfinding system. This approach considers the needs of people with a range of disabilities (physical, sensory, neurodiversity, learning disabilities), people from multicultural backgrounds, the Gender Reassignment (Trans status) community, maternity/pregnancy and religion/belief.
In addition, NHS GJ has liaised with the National Treatment Centres Programme Board to share best practice strategies for embedding inclusive design principles across the remainder of the sites due for completion across Scotland in future years. We will continue to innovate to provide the highest levels of accessibility based on a person-centred approach to service design.
