The announcement of changes in the language used to refer to patients at NHS Sussex has attracted significant attention. This change follows an effort to increase access to mental health services and reduce the stigma felt by individuals, shifting from the term 'patient' to other terms such as 'service leader', 'experienced specialist', and 'person with a mental illness'.
Details of the Terminology Changes
The National Health Service (NHS) of England has recently published guidance for a new agreement on mental health language, suggesting that individuals should be referred to using new terms instead of being called 'patients'. These changes are seen as an effort to create a more tangible and person-centered approach in the delivery of health services.
However, these changes have faced widespread criticism on social media. Many users have described these changes as 'silly' and 'vague', expressing concern that the new terminology may cause further confusion for individuals seeking health assistance.
Experts' Critiques of the Language Changes
Dr. Lucy Hooper, a general practitioner and co-founder of Coyne Medical, and Dr. Ali Ross, a registered psychotherapist with UKCP, both believe that changing the language cannot meet the real expectations and needs of patients. Dr. Hooper states, 'I don't think the word 'patient' is a terrible word. We all will be patients at some point in our lives.' She emphasizes that the term 'patient' has its roots in the Latin 'pati', which means to suffer or endure. It is an important reminder that when someone comes to us, they may be anxious, scared, or unwell and deserving of the best care from us.
Dr. Ross has also criticized these changes, stating, 'These changes will only lead to confusion. Individuals with mental disorders are already in critical situations and need a simple and clear language to receive help.'
Potential Consequences of Language Changes
Experts are concerned that these language changes could lead to unnecessary ambiguity. Dr. Ross notes, 'If all individuals are referred to with a broad term regarding mental health, we may not be able to recognize the subtle differences between conditions such as postpartum depression or complex PTSD.'
In response to the criticisms, NHS Sussex has stated that this guidance is not an official policy and serves as a tool to encourage thought about the language used. The aim of these changes is to create an environment that encourages individuals to use NHS services and provides them with a greater sense of comfort.
Overall, both experts believe that focusing on the quality of services and how to interact with patients is more important and should not be limited to name changes. Dr. Hooper states, 'How we treat patients and value them is more important than any label that is given to them.'
