Frontline staff across the Department of Health and Social Care are backing a campaign which focuses on going back to basics, by encouraging staff to introduce themselves when talking to patients.

Hello my name is… – which has spread across the UK over recent months – was started by Kate Granger, a UK hospital consultant who was diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Dr Granger observed that when being told her cancer had spread, the doctor informing her did not introduce themselves and did not make eye contact. She also noticed that other staff failed to introduce themselves during her hospital stay.

Dr Granger felt this was wrong and with the support of her husband started a campaign to encourage and remind healthcare staff about the importance of introductions in the delivery of care.

The ‘Hello my name is...’ campaign has since captured the imagination of the public and has received backing from 400,000 workers across the NHS and the Secretary of State for Health, Jeremy Hunt [MP].

Medical Director for the Isle of Man, Dr Jugnu Mahajan, said: “Introducing yourself to a patient isn’t just basic courtesy; it’s a fundamental part of good care. It’s an important step in establishing a connection and a relationship. It’s about showing compassion and that you care, remembering the importance of respect and dignity.

“Staff across all our services, whether it be healthcare, social care, mental health services, in hospitals or in the wider community, can be very busy and feel under pressure. But it’s vital that none of us forget the basics and what a difference they can make to the patient experience.”

As part of the campaign, all frontline health and social care staff are being encouraged to remember to introduce themselves to patients and family members who may be present when care is delivered.

Dr Iain Kewley, Interim Executive Director for Integrated Care said: “Kate’s story has resonated with staff here in the Isle of Man and we are pleased to join the campaign.

“We are focussed on improving care across the Department, which includes supporting staff to deliver these important elements – respect, dignity, empathy, compassion, by introducing themselves at the point of care.

“I hope this campaign and, importantly, the story behind it, will inspire staff and serve as a reminder of how little things can make such a difference.”