District nurses spend 88 days a year doing admin while spending only 87 seeing patients
In addition they spend another 27 days travelling between jobs, 27 on annual leave, 12 days off sick and 12 on other random tasks
DISTRICT nurses spend more time doing admin than treating patients, a report reveals.
They spend 87 days a year with patients but 88 days filling in forms, an NHS chief said.
In addition they spend another 27 days travelling between jobs, 27 on annual leave, 12 days off sick and 12 on other random tasks.
It means nurses spend a mere 34 per cent of their time — excluding weekends and bank holidays — looking after patients.
NHS England boss Simon Stevens told a conference of senior managers: “That is hugely frustrating for very stretched frontline staff. That is a massive efficiency opportunity.”
The figures are contained in a report by Lord Patrick Carter. Mr Stevens highlighted the figures as an example of inefficiencies as he called for a change in care delivery.
Alternatives could involve more video consultations or giving nurses iPads, so they can fill in forms electronically on the go.
NHS staff working in the community typically report lower levels of job satisfaction, which can lead to more days off sick and more quitting.
Mr Stevens said the NHS is fortunate to have received a £21billion funding windfall that had left police and headteachers “looking on with jealousy”.
But he warned they must invest the cash wisely.
MOST READ IN UK NEWS
Mr Stevens told the Manchester conference: “We’ve got to think fundamentally about how our care is delivered and how our frontline staff work.”
GOT a story? RING The Sun on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or EMAIL [email protected]