Improving service provision for patients who are prescribed continence products

It is estimated that 14 million people experience problems with bladder control and 6.5 million people have a bowel control problem (Bladder and Bowel Foundation, 2008). Many will rely on continence products to manage their problem and as such require products which ensure user dignity and discretion is maintained. Locally, an ever-increasing spend on prescribed continence products promoted a review of current service delivery. The combined results of a clinical audit and patient satisfaction survey highlighted areas in which service delivery needed immediate improvement. Significant service re-design has been undertaken with prescribing responsibility for continence-related products being transferred from GP practices to specialist nurses working within the continence service. Improvements in clinical care have been achieved and cost savings have been re-invested in the service.