"Back pain at Northampton - could have been perfect"

I was in hospital for 2 days in August. I was admitted with back problem.

I would like to start with the good things and would like to praise staff including. Receptionists, Nursing staff, Domestics and physiotherapy staff. I was also impressed by the ethical and caring attitude of junior doctors.I was very impressed by the caring and proffessional attitude of the Nursing staff in The Assessment Unit and Abington Ward. I felt they were treating me as if I was a family member. They showed empathy and understanding, not only for my pain and agony but also for my social circumstances. To conclude, they had a holistic approach.

On the other hand I felt that the clinical team did not access the necessary investigations. In my case I strongly felt I should have MRI scan and interim arrangements for referral to Subspeciality. Instead I was discharged, asked to see my GP for a referal to Spinal Surgon which prolonged my suffering.

I feel the reason for not doing MRI was mainly financial. I pay my tax and National Insuranse contribution, so I don't understand why this happened.