Yet the Welsh and Scottish governments introduced guidelines in 2008. Experts say the NHS must send out a clear message on healthy food choices. England has no national guidelines on the health content of food and drink sold in hospital vending machines, unlike Scotland and Wales where machines are recommended to be stocked with at least 30% healthier choice products.
Amanda McLean, general manager at the WCRF, said chocolate bars, crisps and sugary soft drinks were not appropriate items to be selling in hospitals.
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2 comments:
I well remember one occasion when attending an outpatient clinic I had to wait for 7 hours. Of course no one expects to be there for so long. an ex-member of the Hospital Board was also waiting and informed the nurses that they had an obligation to provide food for diabetics in such circumstances. I declined my share with thanks.
Even before diagnosis I would not have eaten anything available from the snack bar or the vending machines.
In fact a chocolate bar from the vending machines could have been the least-worst option. Sometimes needs must but hospitals should be leading the way, not following the herd. I believe some even have McDonalds in their "shopping malls"
Last time I had an eye op there was a woman in the waiting room -diabetic with retinopathy- who spent the whole time eating crisps. None of the staff commented. In the past I have been refused a sip of water after waiting 8 hours in hot weather.
I queried his and was told it depended on the surgeon ad the had different views! The procedures I mean are done under local anesthetic but in the operating theater. This woman was breaking the rules but was just allowed to continue. It’s a missed opportunity to make a point. Something which would make a lasting impression just because of where it is. The hospital I attend is some distance from any shops so hey have a captive audience to an extent People intend to remember and talk about their hospital experiences so here is also opportunity to reach the wider impressing the wider community. There may be disagreement about what constitutes a healthy snack but there can be no disagreement over the quality of what is currently on offer.
They have a duty to promote best practice and educate their patients and visitors. It many not be popular but neither is the smoking ban with some people.
Kath
If possible I try to use the 'Friends' cafe at my hospital. They do often serve a small salad that I can eat while waiting for my appointment. I do try and avoid vending machines but they are everywhere you go. Does some of the money go into hospital funds, like the car parking charges?
Jeanne
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