"Unacceptable amount of time and ..."

What I liked

Unacceptable amount of time and difficulty in just trying to make contact with the hospital.Trying to contact the Neurology Dept- to find out when/how/ my husband may be finding out the results of diagnostic tests-(had on 7/12/07). Had to ring 18 times over 2 hours, phone just kept ringing out-no answer, (not even a queue.or music) Thought the number must have changed- checked directory enquiries.

What could be improved

Someone to answer the phone.

Provide direct dept. numbers if you have already been seen by a consultant, and know who you need to contact.Tell patients what the process may be/ or provide a written inormation sheet. Someone- Consultant, nursing staff anyone- to tell someone who is facing possibly bad news- about what happens next after the tests- how long before he hears results of tests, how is this information told, is he waiting for another consultant appointment? if this is going to take a long time- couldn't the Gp be advised to then inform my husband?