AN Ayrshire NHS service that gives patients a bigger say in how they are treated in an emergency has been welcomed.

Ayrshire and Arran health board heard how the ReSPECT (Recommended Summary Plan for Emergency Care and Treatment) had helped one patient who was worried about dying alone.

In a report to the board, it was stated that Ann, who had been diagnosed with a rare, progressive illness of the respiratory system which scars the lungs and makes breathing difficult, was struggling with the news.

This was at a time when she was already emotionally vulnerable, as she was still grieving for her late husband, Bill.

The report continued: “She recalls a feeling of abandonment at that time.

“Ann has researched her condition and explained that she could cope with whatever was thrown at her as long as she understood her disease and knew what to expect.”

Knowing that her condition is life limiting, Ann said she only wanted to go to hospital if the condition is reversible and did not want to die there, instead valuing ‘comfort over extending her life’ and wanting to die at home.

“However, if this is not achievable she may consider a care home. Ann’s biggest fear is dying alone,” the report said.

The board heard that, when meeting the ReSPECT team, she faced the same feelings as she had in the wake of her husband’s death.

However, the meeting made her realise that she had been "empowered to make her own decisions".

She felt cared for following the meeting and she was reassured that her thoughts and wishes would be followed.

So positive was the meeting that Ann wished to share her story to highlight the project and to let others know how this has enabled her to make plans for any healthcare emergency that might arise as a result of her life limiting conditions.

The report stated: “A ReSPECT Plan lets healthcare staff know what matters to a person when in a health crisis, and who may not be able to speak up for themselves.

“Once the plan is completed, professionals such as ambulance crews, out of hours’ health professionals, care home staff and hospital staff will be better able to make immediate decisions about a person’s emergency care and treatment whilst ensuring their wishes are at the forefront of those decisions.

“Ann’s story highlights the significant positive impact that can be made involving patients in decisions about their healthcare.

“Many people approaching the end of life undergo emergency medical interventions and hospitalisations that do not hold value for them.

“A ReSPECT Plan allows healthcare professionals to understand the patient’s preferences and values as expressed in advance of a healthcare emergency.”

A pilot scheme was launched earlier this year with 79 ReSPECT plans carried out, with feedback being reviewed to allow a rollout throughout the remainder of the year.