"I had an ongoing condition for ..."

What I liked

I had an ongoing condition for 12 years before having major surgery in November 2007. The teams that looked after me during 2004-07 at Dewsbury were excellent - kind and supportive and easily contacble. They explained my medication and options thoroughly. They were great when discussing my surgery options and helped me to make my decision without making it for me. The surgeon was fantastic - very approachable and kind and used the latest technicques. The hospital team were fantastic - took great care of me. My follow up care has also been very strong. I have been admitted 3 times since my initial operation and the A&E staff have been very efficient and caring - my wait was short and treatment quick and effective.

I also like that the hospital is small and friendly and easy to get around. It also does not feel over restrictive (you can make calls on your mobile in certain areas and flowers are allowed, plus you can get toast out of hours which is great if you have been sick etc). The hospital also seems pretty clean - they seem pretty thorough though I am sure the place coud be cleaner but at the detriment of service received.

What could be improved

Nothing really - I have spend way too much time in this hospital in outpatients, on the wards and in A&E and have never seen anything that concerned me and have never felt the urge to complain! I've also spent time in various other hospitals over the years and feel that Dewsbury beats them all for care and service.

Anything else?

I think Dewsbury should stay as it is and not lose services to the new Pinderfields Hospital.