"Why not give the patient a number"

Hi venussn94,

Thanks for taking the time to provide feedback about the service you experienced in our Exeter clinic. I'm really glad you thought the team involved in your care were really nice and hope you left the service with all your needs met.

In the past, many services have used a number system for calling patients - however, it tends to become quite complicated because a lot of patients don't remember their assigned number. Some years ago we trialled using a ticketing system, but the tickets frequently got lost or put down whilst patients were waiting; also due to multiple clinics happening at the same time, we don't always call patients in order either, which added to the confusion.

It may be worth knowing that sexual health services are completely confidential and our systems are not joined up with any other medical records that may be held for you via your GP or local hospital. This means that if you wish to register with the clinic under a completely anonymous name, or use an alias, you can do. Or you can ask to be called by your initials, if that is preferable. We can add a note or update your file when you next attend. The only thing we ask is that you remember the details you give and the name used in the service, so we are able to find your records each time you attend, to avoid any risks with multiple medical records being held.

I hope that is helpful. If you have any other concerns regarding confidentiality, or wish to contact me personally to provide any other feedback, please email on: rduh.shexeteradmin@nhs.net.

Best wishes,

April Brooks

Lead Nurse