"Appalling Organisation leading to a poor standard..."

I attended the hospital for a standard pre-operative assessment. I was asked to attend the unit at 11.30am and told I was likely to be there until late afternoon. I imagined I must be having many tests but no; an ECG. 5mins, a blood test, 3mins & a chat with a nurse 10mins. What time did I get away 4.10pm. Yes four & a half hours for less than 20mins. I was not alone, we were all in the same boat. Why on earth were we all asked to attend at the same time? You can't see everyone at the same time. Your dealing with sick people here, I would expect better service at an MOT centre. We got to know each other’s life stories by the time we were seen. One lady who was very ill and uncomfortable (didn't want to complain because "they are so overworked") I had to ask on her behalf which did get her seen sooner but the staff shouldn't have to be told this by a patient (Oh and just a point on the “over worked bit”. Unless you’re going home late every night you’re not overworked your badly organised). As usual all the staff I talked to admitted that the service was very bad and it was "always like this" (supported by the: expect to be there until late afternoon warning in the appointment letter). Here is a good Idea, surprised you haven’t thought of it yourself, ask your staff what they think! It’s this kind of poor management that will lead to this service & others like it being privatised. Oh & by the way, I should know, I’ve worked and managed in public & private health care here & in the US.