"Rheumatology dept is excellent"

I attend rheumatology regularly and always found the majority of the staff friendly, caring and companionate. However, the reception staff on the whole are badly in need of retraining.. Unhelpful, rude, uncaring. There are some admin staff who are lovely but only one or two. The appointment system badly needs an overhaul as well. When a patient needs seeing in 4 weeks, 8 weeks is unacceptable. And don't even talk about a 4 month appointment!! I had to wait nearly a year for a follow up! Back to the good points though. A special mention to my consultant, yes I have had to see other drs but she was around when needed. Also saw me with no notes when admin staff 'Lost' my appointment after 6 cancellations on their side. Another shout out to the nursing assistant who is the most cheerful, comforting person there. She needs a medal. Physio and podiatry also are excellent and the hydrotherapy pool is clean and the staff are amazing.