Beyond the headline: NHS performance and DBTH

Today, various media outlets reported on performance within the NHS, which has been described as the worst since records began.

We did a little number crunching to understand where we stack up as a Trust. Its no secret that as time progresses we are seeing more and more activity within our wards and services. However, despite this, our Trust continues to outstrip average national performance in the four key indicators which have been the focus of attention today (14 October).

Four Hour Access (Emergency Department):

As you can see from the above, the Trust is consistently performing above the four hour access national performance. This comes in the face of ever-increasing attendances, as detailed below:

In the past four years, we have seen attendances increase by a staggering 11,427. You can see the breakdown below – however, it really needs saying at this point, Team DBTH are nothing short of amazing:

  • 2015/16: 163,749 – Access target 94.51
  • 2016/17: 166,583 (+1.7%) – Access target 91.4% (nationally 89.1%)
  • 2017/18: 165,557 (-0.6%) – Access target 91.5% (nationally 88.32%)
  • 2018/19: 175,176 (+5.81) – Access target 92.64% (nationally 88%).
  • 2019/20 so far: 109,342, forecast 187,000, current four hour access 90.6% (nationally 86%).

So far this year: We have cared for 5,993 more people than in a comparative period in 2018. That’s an increase of six percent!

In July 2019: We had our busiest month of record, with a whopping 10,082 attendances recorded at Doncaster Royal Infirmary, and a staggering 16,894 emergency attendances seen across our three hospital sites.

Monday 28 October: Was our busiest day on record, with 545 emergency attendances recorded.

And despite these challenges, we are currently registering a four hour access performance of 90.6% – far beyond the national average of 86%. As Team DBTH, you are doing a phenomenal job.

Referral to Treatment (18 Weeks):

While we are performing below the target of 92%, working with our commissioners, we are hoping to achieve this standard by the end of this financial year (31 March 2020). Even with current performance however, we are leading the national average.

62 day cancer treatment wait

Again, the Trust is leading the national average in this area, as well as meeting the national target of 85%. A fantastic achievement which should be celebrated.