"Treated quickly & competently, well informed,..."

I was referred by my GP with abdominal pain to rule out appendicitis. I was seen very quickly and appropriate tests were carried out promptly. Staff were very friendly and helpful from registration at A & E through to delivery of results and conclusion of examinations by the Surgical Assessment Unit. I was treated with respect throughout my visit. I was asked for appropriate history (I had been to the hospital before and my records were all readily available and up to date) and I was given information about each test to be carried out. Tests were urine, bloods, blood pressure, temperature, ultrasound & general physical examination. At each stage I was kept informed of what was happening. I was taken for an ultrasound where an excellent sonographer talked me very clearly through what they were looking at / for a what the conclusion was. I required an internal scan and this was done in such a way that I retained my dignity and was put at ease. A member of staff walked me back to SAU rather than leaving me to find my way. I saw 3 'levels' of Doctor which reassured me that conclusions were being independently checked. There was continuity in that one doctor was there all the way through. Within about 3 hours of arriving I had received all the necessary tests and results, and been given a comprehensive summary of the conclusion. I did not require further treatment, but my details were held in case the pain continued. I was provided with clear instructions that I could go back directly to SAU (not via A&E) if I had any problems. I was then very impressed to receive a call the next day to check how I was. This is really good service and what I would hope for! Luckily I did not require follow-up.

Overall: very quick, competent, service - I felt respected, informed and listened to throughout, and confident in the conclusions presented by the doctors. The 'virtual ward' retention of information seems an excellent idea and follow-up call was also impressive - this could be really important in some cases. Excellent service - thank you!