Recently, several Experts in Mental Health Together attended the Derbyshire Healthcare Medical Senate (large meeting for all psychiatrists in Derby and Derbyshire). Steve Jones, Chief Pharmacist was also in attendance (he had been on leave at our previous attendance).

Experts received feedback from the Medical Director and other senior clinicians, who valued the session and have given the go ahead on new patient information leaflets co-produced with Mental Health Together.

The leaflets were originally designed for outpatients, but from the Medical Senate, Dr Asad Malik, Psychiatrist & Clinical Director for Inpatient Services expressed support for adapting the outpatient leaflet for inpatient use.

This is another step forward in making sure everyone feels informed and supported.

Experts raised key issues from their lived experiences including: 

•  ensuring clinic letters are always addressed and sent to patients
• medication changes and side effects are clearly explained
• communication is improved during national medication shortages
• prescribing of certain medications, such as clozapine, when appropriate

The Trust is now working on solutions, including better digital access and regular updates about medication supply.

Expanding patient feedback systems remains a priority, with all feedback helping drive improvements in line with the NHS 10-year plan for effective, safe, and empowering care.