This is Care Opinion [siteRegion]. Did you want Care Opinion [usersRegionBasedOnIP]?

"Why does the blood test clinic shut early?"

About: Cheshunt Community Hospital

(as a carer),

Cheshunt Cottage Hospital has a blood test clinic that is supposed to close at 3.30 pm, but if they get busy they stop taking blood up to 45 mins early. So last week, I took my mum on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday for her Warfirin INR blood test and on all 3 days they stopped taking blood at 2.45, and dozens of patients were being turned away! Most of them were elderly, in mini cabs etc. So 3 lots of return fares only to be sent away.

They tell them if it's urgent (though when is INR not urgent?) that they should go to another hospital. The nearest is Chase Farm in Enfield, which is probably another over £20 cab fare.

They say that the courier comes at a certain time to collect the samples, I don't see why they can't phone him and tell him to come later if they are so busy! Instead of inconveniencing dozens of elderly and sick patients.

This seems to happen all the time and is totally disgusting. I feel that this shows no duty of care.

More about:
Do you have a similar story to tell? Tell your story & make a difference ››
Opinions
Next Response j
Previous Response k