GOOD VISIT TO THE CLINIC. and some points on why.

[Theyer]

Since the last week  off Aug I have had 4 bouts off mucus filled chest, temp,s, weakness , sweats,increasing with each bout.So as it had reached the 3rd 4Th week I decided it was time to visit the clinic

It would be my first visit since the new unit was opened 6 to 9 months ago.This unit bought inpatients, Day pations , drop in patients together under one roof. The only part now off site is the clinic covering 3/4/6 monthly blood check up,s with the patient.s consultant. I.D. Doctor.

The unit contines to have The Chelsea and Westminster emphasis on good design / Art throughout the place.Staff not in uniform -smart casual being the term.

Before contacting I visited the web site which clearly laid out there procedure. To ring the triage nurse Monday to Friday between 9am to 2pm.A decision is made at that first call. 1- come straight to the clinic, 2-Book a later appointment with I.D. Doc ,, 3-book visit with GP.

I arrived pleased that the place look great, the welcome easy and friendly, and in no time at all I was shown into a negative pressurized room in case T.B had come a knocking. I settled into a  extremely comfortable reclining chair, chattering with the nurse who I first met 13 years ago.. Junior Doc came to take bloods and do physical and the 101 ?. Again easy , relaxed , charming and born in the year I was diagnosed 1989. Before she left she explained next step X-ray, how long it would take, where the toilet was , and that if I felt shut in I could leave but please inform reception on leaving and returning. And fully cover mouth if coughing .

All off this happened with ease, I left with anti biotics, puffa to ease breathing appointment on Thursday.

I had noticed that there where quite a few 75 plus people in waiting room ,commented on this and found out that since the HIV oncology dept had better outcomes that the previous oncology dept this unit now treated all chemo cases for the whole Hospital . Which is some success and probably explains why there are only single inpatient rooms -20- instead off the old wards 2 bays off 6 plus 8 single rooms. However there had been no increase in oncology nurses , so the work load was pressurized and "full -on ''.

I felt good leaving , I have known this clinic when it was held in a temporary prefab building , lots off course has changed but the friendliness , clear and easy access, staff staying a long time and a pride on how the place looks and works has remained.

So often I have posted or joined posts  where events have been differcult for folks when visiting Hospitals/clinics. So I wanted to write this.

Keep on Keeping on Chelsea & Westminster .

   

[BT65]

Big difference than the way it seems to be here in the U.S.   It seems here the medical establishment cares about seeing as many people as possible to make money.  Well, some anyway.  I know there is quality healthcare here in some places.  I have a great doctor and don't forget that's a blessing.

I'm glad you have such a quality healthcare experience there, Michael.   I hope you feel better soon!  I didn't know you were so ill.

[Theyer]

Thanks Betty, I have only had a week during the month when I was in bed rest off the time  below par, but OK and a few days very active , however those days always followed by infection roaring back.

I not saying that all health care provision is at this level in the UK but its not unique either.