The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has launched its new Patient Communications Policy, outlining the core principles, guidance and legal obligations for all forms of communication with, and about, patients.

The policy sets out general principles for all patient communication, which are at the heart of the policy and were developed with the help of over 300 patients, carers and stakeholders including our Council of Governors.

Carolyn Mills, Chief Nursing Officer, said: “We know that poor communication with patients doesn’t just lead to a negative experience, but can also impact their care and risk their safety. This policy and its principles are a vital part of our commitment to deliver quality care and positive experiences for our patients.”

The policy supports our Patient Experience Strategy, which sets out the Trust’s vision for all patients to feel welcome, included, safe, supported and valued.

We are committed to providing accessible services for all, so if you have specific communication needs, more information about the support we can provide is available on our website.