"I booked into A&E at midnight ..."

What I liked

I booked into A&E at midnight on 25 October with what proved to be a Prostate problem - I couldn't urinate at all. From the moment I arrived I was dealt with speedily, sympathetically and professionally. My condition was swiftly diagnosed and within a couple of days I was successfully operated on. Throughout my stay, the consultant, Mr Hashim, took a keen interest in my problem and subsequent recovery. In addition, I would like to thank the staff of Ampney Ward for their efforts in dealing cheerfully and tirelessly with a variety of crises which always seemed to occur at about 2 am. It's said that people make a place - and they certainly did! In summary, the nursing staff clearly appeared to work their socks off. The food was tasty and varied and the caterers clearly took a genuine interest in what they were producing. With so much adverse media publicity about the NHS these days, one wonders what to expect about a spell in hospital. However, my 9 days in GWH were a completely positive experience and I shall be singing its praises on every suitable occasion!

What could be improved

Hospitals these days are very 'high tech' and hence there are a variety of electronic alarms and phones going off. During the 'quiet hours' (2200 - 0500) these are more noticeable. It seemed to me that, sometimes, telephones went unanswered for a long time. This drew comment from the less tolerant patients on my ward.