"Diagnosis by GP and subsequent operation on my leg"

My GP diagnosed a growth on my leg as malignant. I was referred to a consultant at Kingston upon Thames Hospital and seen within 3 weeks. He confirmed diagnosis. No beds available at Kingston so referred to St George's at Tooting for an operation and skin graft which took place under local anaesthetic just over 2 weeks later.

Medical treatment excellent. Very clearly explained both before and during the operation.

Had to wait over 3 hours in recovery for a bed on the ward and was not kept informed - felt isolated at this point.

Outpatients a week later. Senior nurse very competent. Re-visited again a week later and saw another nurse - not quite so experienced but OK. Discharged into care of GP. Saw nurse at GP twice. Not so convinced about her competence but OK.

Consultant from Kingston wrote to the GP (but the wrong one, same surname, different surgery!) following the first consultation but his letter was written a month later after the surgery had taken place! He subsequently wrote to me to tell me the outcome of the histological test on the skin tissue removed at the operation and I was relieved to find this was benign.

Overall, very prompt attention by my GP (who is at an excellent surgery), quick referral to hospital consultant, good medical care. Administration not so good. No help with transport from hospital ( I could not drive) so relied on taxis. Fortunately I was accompanied by my wife otherwise it would have been quite daunting and it was not clear who was there to help if this has been the case.