Children and young people’s views of health professionals in England

Abstract

In recent years increased attention has been focused on listening to the views of children and young people. This study analysed 31 research studies, which were published between 2000 and early 2009, into children and young people's views of health professionals in England. The findings from the studies were inductively analysed and grouped into seven themes. Children and young people want health professionals to be familiar, accessible and available; to be informed and competent; to provide accessible information; to be a good communicator; to participate in care; to ensure privacy and confidentiality, and to demonstrate acceptance and empathy. It is noteworthy that over the nine years many studies repeated the same broad messages to health professionals. The findings suggest that although there are examples of good practice, health professionals are sometimes falling short of the standards set by UK health professional bodies.