"My appointment and overal general..."

What I liked

On the positive side; This was my first visit to the new hospital. I have to say that I found it very easy to get to by public transport. My bus took me more or less straight to the main entrance. The cafe/restaurant, which I used briefly, was nice and clean in appearance (as were the other areas as far as I could see whilst visiting the hospital) and pleasant to sit in. Also, I thought the menu prices were very reasonable. All the staff I encountered in the hospital very professional, helpfull, courteous and friendly. Although the hospital department which I visited seemed to be very quiet, I nevertheless very much appreciated my appointment being kept on time.

What could be improved

On the negative side; I thought the waiting area seating was situated a little too close to the main entrance doors, which were opening every few minutes, and although I personally wasn't uncomfortable at all I could imagine how drafty it might be for other people sat waiting in that area, especially at this time of the year during this exceptionally cold Winter. More importantly, I could not understand why, as my hospital appointment letter stated that my appointment was in the 'Ultrasound Department', there were not any signs anywhere at the main reception and main coridoors indicating where that department was situated. Now, I reported straight to the main reception immediately upon arrival, asked where to go, and was directed to Radiology. Ok, so this didn't amount to too much of a problem for me. However, as Ultrasound is an actual department, itself, it is very puzzling as to why it doesn't have it's own sign in the main areas etc. Potentially, it could be confusing for patients, especially during a busy time at the main reception, whereby an out-patient might like to bypass this facility and follow the general internal hospital signage. Also, is it standard practise not to mention Radiology in correspondence when refering to appointments in the ultrasound department? It was not mentioned in my hospital appointment letter at all. Discovering that the League Of Friends shop was closed was disapointing, but then given that my visit was between the Christmas and New Year holiday, perhaps that was understandable. Lastly, I always think hospitals throughout the country really should have more pictures up on their walls, or if this is considerd a health issue, then murals or something similar. I think it is very much underestimated just how much this contributes to a more pleasant, general visual environment and to patients' feeling of well being.

Anything else?

Overall, my visit was a very positive one, and so I would like to take this opportunity to thank all staff concerned for this and wish everyone at the hospital a very happy New Year, 2011.AppointmentsCar Park ChargesCleanlinessCourteousHelpfullnessNoise levelsCanteenWaiting AreasColdsTemperatureReceptionSignsDay treatmentRadiologyOpening hoursEnvironmentShopSignage