Privacy 'helps patients recover'

Privacy and dignity are major factors in patients making a speedy recovery according to research by South Central Strategic Health Authority (SHA).

In a survey, 83% of patients also said the most important part of the hospital experience was friendliness and approachability of staff.

The authority covers Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Berkshire and Oxfordshire.

With funding from the Department of Health, the SHA is now investing £6.8m in improving hospital wards.

The authority said it was making privacy and staff friendliness its top priorities and 67 projects were already under way.

Shower, bathroom and toilet facilities are being improved in hospitals.

Privacy screens for larger wards are being installed along with more same-sex accommodation.

Money is also being spent on improved information and staff training.