"Poor attitudes of some staff"

I recently had a dental appointment. I was sitting in the waiting area at Montefield dental clinic where I witnessed very poor and disappointing attitudes by some of the staff towards a member of public.

The person came into the clinic and said they were sorry to be late, and instead of being responded to with politeness I thought the response was rude and abrupt. The person was told they were 6 minutes late and that the dentist would see them.

The dentist was asked and the patient was told they were too late to be seen by the dentist and would have to wait for another appointment in a months time. I think the way this person was unfairly treated and staff attitudes were appalling.

My opinion is that the person was treated dismissively and rudely because of who they were. I have been late taking a relative to the dentist and I was not treated with that rudeness. I wonder if that's because I am not the same character as the man who was late for his appointment? On this occasion, I don't feel I witnessed a health service where staff are taught to treat individuals with equality, respect and not to discriminate anyone.

I am a staff member within NHS Shetland and I think this is why I am so shocked at what behaviours are occurring. I had to stop myself getting out of my chair and telling the staff what poor attitude they have.

I totally understand about the importance of arriving for an appointment on time as this prevents delays occurring. The person was not half an hour late but 6 minutes late and the first thing they did was apologise for being late. I feel so strongly about this issue as some people can not speak up for themselves and someone has to prevent other situations like this occurring.