Fitter Better Sooner resources shortlisted for BMA Patient Information Award

The Royal College of Anaesthetists is delighted to announce that the Fitter Better Sooner patient information toolkit on preparing for surgery, has been shortlisted for the 2019 BMA Patient Information Awards.

Endorsed by the Royal College of Surgeons and the Royal College of General Practitioners, the Fitter Better Sooner resources were developed to advise patients on how to prepare for going into hospital and encouraging them to improve their health before surgery. The toolkit consists of one main leaflet, six specific leaflets on some of the most common surgical procedures and an animation designed to be shown in clinic and surgery waiting areas.

Dr Hilary Swales, RCoA Clinical Lead for Patient Information and consultant anaesthetist said: “We are thrilled that the Fitter Better Sooner resources are being recognised in this way. Having an operation is a major event in a person’s life. We wanted to create materials that were accessible and help reduce anxiety around the prospect of going into hospital and to help give practical hints and tips about how to prepare for surgery and recover more quickly after it. This nomination is a testament to the hard work and commitment of the entire team at the College who worked on this important initiative – I couldn’t be more proud.”

The BMA Patient Information Awards were established in 1997 to encourage excellence in the production and dissemination of accessible, well-designed and clinically balanced patient information.

The awards aim to reinforce the BMA's commitment to support good educational practice and acknowledge new approaches and technologies intended for the public audience.

Up to five resources have been shortlisted for each award and the winners will be announced at a ceremony and reception on the afternoon of Tuesday 10 September 2019 at BMA House.