"Some good things some not so great…."

I was referred a year ago and the referral appeared to have been lost. On chasing this up it was resolved quickly and appointment then given.

The MyChart system is inherently flawed - difficult to access (impossible for elderly and visually impaired). Lost my details. Changed appointments with no notice. Past appointments no longer anywhere to be seen. Test results not accessible. Too many glitches to mention. I will be writing separately to request letters and that this online system is not relied on in my case.

The cardiology department includes some amazing, professional and helpful people - but others were less welcoming and friendly.

Clinical staff - My consultant had a lovely reassuring manner, was thorough and great at explaining what further tests and appointments would be needed. Had detailed understanding of my genetic condition and links to cardiology data which was reassuring. Highly recommended.

The sequence of tests eg echocardiograms, ECGs, blood pressure tests felt a little like being on a conveyer belt. I would imagine this could be very unsettling for elderly, disabled or visually impaired individuals. We were advised it was a 45 minute appointment but arrived at 1.30 and left at 5.15. Allow plenty of time.

Pharmacy set up was farcical - badly laid out, not great for visually impaired, confusing and delays very stressful when catching trains for long journeys. One of the pharmacy staff was bellowing at waiting patients. Inappropriate. The screen system is not good for visually impaired people or those with balance issues, limited mobility or other health conditions.

On a plus side - on 2 occasions of trying to work out where to go, 2 separate members of staff stopped and asked if I was ok and quickly sent me in the right direction. Generally most staff, with one or two exceptions, were friendly and reassuringly compassionate.

Staff let down by behind the scenes organisation, delays in getting appointments etc and the MyChart system is simply awful - terrible method of communication. And I’m an internet and computer savvy adult!

Overall - good but very let down by using MyChart which was utterly useless.