My mom suffered a traumatic brain injury in October, leaving her in the hospital for ten months. Throughout this challenging period, she has been let down by the NHS, and the Integrated Care Board (ICB). The ICB was going to send her to a care facility that was not only unsuitable but potentially unsafe and a safeguarding issue. This personal ordeal highlights a critical gap in the healthcare system regarding patient assessments before being placed in care facilities. Mom would’ve died there having been let to go there by the people who should be looking after her. My mom has been in hospital over 10 months and has been failed by the NHS system, physiotherapists at our local hospital and has been relinquished her equal right to go to rehabilitation. Julie deserves to be in a place that can cater for her complex and complicated needs, not just the cheapest place. 

Requiring care facilities to conduct thorough pre-admission assessments is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of patients and their families. Every year, countless individuals like my mother face the daunting prospect of entering a care or rehab facility that doesn't cater to their specific needs, leading to potentially hazardous situations. Comprehensive assessments can determine the suitability of a facility to meet complex health needs, thereby preventing further physical and emotional distress for patients.

The importance of patient assessments cannot be overstated. According to various health reports and studies, a significant proportion of care home and rehabilitation admissions result in negative outcomes due to poor alignment of patient needs and the care facilities’ capabilities. By making pre-admission assessments mandatory, we can eliminate the risk of unsuitable placements, enhance the quality of care, and provide peace of mind for families.

Reforming this process is not only a step towards safeguarding vulnerable individuals but also serves as a measure to maintain the integrity and reputation of care institutions. It holds facilities accountable and ensures they are both competent and committed to offering the level of care patients deserve. With rising healthcare demands, it is imperative that our system evolves to meet these needs, ensuring every patient receives the best possible care.

Please join me in urging policymakers and healthcare authorities to implement a mandate requiring all care facilities to perform patient assessments before acceptance, thereby ensuring that families can trust their loved ones are in safe, well-suited environments. Sign this petition to advocate for the necessary and proactive changes that will protect individuals and improve overall care standards.