"Dermatology appointment"

I visited the dermatology dept after a referral from my doctor for a facial spot.

I found the whole experience unpleasant . The doctor was devoid of communication skills and openly admitted that they did not talk much and in their words ' I do not find talking helpful in my job'' !

I suggested that the patients would certainly find empathetic communication totally desirable . Indeed a job in medicine surely means you are concerned with the whole person you are treating in order to make their diagnosis as informed but as caring an experience as possible .

I cannot believe that this critical side to medicine is not taught in med school!

I have had breast cancer, my partner , prostate and I am currently looking after my mum who has terminal ovarian cancer . My partner us being admitted next week for a mouth cancer op. This is only mentioned to highlight the stress many people are under and a kind word and a pleasant exchange with all patients is essential to allay further angst.

Fortunately my diagnosis was not cancer but I dread to think how I would have been if it had been !

Even the dermatologist who I then saw told me when I asked about waiting times I'm a doctor not a secretary ' !

No one is entitled to speak like this in or outside hospitals . My family and friends have been horrified by my experience. I just hope my partner encounters more humane physicians next week on entry to Hull Royal . A response would be welcome .

Chris Gee