26 June 2008
Patients at Epsom and St Helier hospitals have given the thumbs up to the latest addition to the hospital menu. A recent trial of chunky soup and deep filled sandwiches has proved so popular, that Trust managers have taken the decision to make it a permanent fixture to the evening menu. The soup and sandwiches are made in-house and not bought in from outside suppliers.
The new option gives patients a choice over not just the filling of their sandwich, but also the type of bread.
260 patients completed a survey to find out what they thought of the new evening menu that was introduced in March. The main findings were as follows, with results from previous survey, September 2007, in brackets:
- 97% enjoyed the soup (71%);
- 98% rated the sandwiches as 'excellent', 'good' or 'acceptable' for quality (72%);
- 96% rated the choice of sandwiches as 'excellent', 'good' or 'acceptable' (62%);
- 98% rated the availability of their choice of sandwich as 'excellent', 'good' or 'acceptable' (82%);
- 98% were satisfied with presentation of the sandwiches (16% in previous survey reported difficulty opening packaging).
Nick Gorvett, Director of Corporate Infrastructure is responsible for catering at the hospital. He said:
"The feedback we have received from patients has been excellent. They have not only been quick to compliment the quality of the new meals but also the choice available to them.
"I would like to thank everyone who has participated in the survey. We have listened to their views and have incorporated feedback to the daily menu."
The survey also asked patients if they would like pasta salad to be offered as an alternative to sandwiches. 34% said that they would, and as a result, two pasta salads have been added to the menu.
