P103 Results of a national survey of patient experience and satisfaction with care of liver disease

<h3>Background and Aims</h3> Patients with liver disease report different experiences of care across the UK that can significantly influence their quality of life and subsequent management of their condition. Effective diagnosis and timely referral to specialists are critical. However, there is considerable variability in the diagnostic process and patient experience. This study aims to collect and analyse insights from patients across the UK, with different aetiologies regarding their diagnosis experience, the timeliness of their referrals, their perceptions of their care and their interactions with healthcare providers and the information they received. <h3>Methods</h3> Data was collected through an online survey of 44 questions distributed to patients via the British Liver Trust’s newsletter, support networks, and social media from April to June 2024. The Trust also asked clinicians to assist in sending out the survey via flyers at outpatient appointments or by sending the link via email. <h3>Results</h3> 1,906 people responded to the survey, and a total of 1,254 completed it. 16% (n=288) of respondents were diagnosed with an alcohol-related liver condition, 32% (n=568) with MASLD, and 18% (n=325) with autoimmune hepatitis. Diagnosis: 33.7% were diagnosed following a visit to their GP due to symptoms, 42% following a visit to A&amp;E, 19.5% diagnosed incidentally during tests for other conditions. 62% felt they were not given enough information and only 42% felt that there diagnosis was explained properly. Symptoms: 73% had experienced extreme tiredness/fatigue, 46% jaundice, and 32% had tummy pain/swelling. 18.7% were diagnosed at an early stage, while 14% felt their diagnosis was delayed until the disease had progressed significantly. 25.5% reported feeling stigmatised by medical professionals. Referral times: 23.4% of patients were referred to a hepatologist or gastroenterologist within one month of their initial consultation. However, 15.3% waited 3 to 6 months, 10.2% waited 6 to 12 months and 12.7% waited over 12 months. 31% of patients reported delays in accessing a specialist and 30% saying that were not seen promptly when requiring urgent clinical advice. Associations of geographic region and disease aetiology are now being analysed. <h3>Conclusion</h3> The study highlights significant challenges in accessing care of the required quality. Timely diagnosis, referral and providing patients with a good understanding of their disease are critical for effective management, yet many patients experience delays and inadequate information when they are diagnosed. Patients report feeling stigmatised from healthcare providers.