"Urology Department: 20th March 2013"

Anything else?

My GP referred me to this "rapid access one-stop clinic" at Guys; an appointment came through in around 4 weeks.

It was busy and bustling, but the staff were unflappable and found the time to engage with patients. Rather unusually, I found the reception staff approachable, cheerful and very willing to help, all chipping in to deal with a rather long queue which had suddenly built up. A young man came in in obvious pain and distress, and one of the nurses who happened to be at reception immediately and sympathetically took him under her wing. An elderly and rather confused lady in a wheel chair had the receptionists come to her to take her details, and the doctor who came to examine her greeted her cheerfully, complimented her on her hat and pushed her chair into his office. All seemed genuinely to care.

I was seen by a registrar. He introduced himself by name to me (as did most of the staff who administered the several tests I underwent) and seemed genuinely interested and concerned in my case and in explaining the procedures and tests I would undergo. Nothing serious was found, but the doctor still took the time to talk to me about the best ways of minimising the problems I was experiencing, and he involved me in the decision process. His follow-up letter to my GP (a copy of which was sent to me) was concise and informative.

The staff who administered the tests were efficient and pleasant, and waiting was kept to a minimum. All in all I couldn't fault this department or any of its members, who were uniformly cheerful, welcoming and efficient. I was born at Guy's 63 years ago, and it's great to see it still doing such a great job in the community - at least if this experience is anything to go by.