"Excellent Covid support"

I’m classified as Clinically extremely vulnerable and had taken extraordinary care during the Covid pandemic by shielding etc. I avoided Covid but two weeks became suddenly unwell with fever etc. and tested positive for Covid.

I was very concerned and registered the positive test with the Trust being advised by the IBD specialist nurse at Royal Victoria hospital. 

Within an hour of registering I was called by  Dr Shearer of Mater Hospital and given most sympathetic, caring and clear advice what I should do. He discussed fully optional anti viral treatment options and asked me to consider them. He also told me what the likely course of infection would be; reassured me that my full vaccination record would be of great benefit; he advised me what to do if I became more unwell. Most importantly his advice was unrushed, he listened well, and was reassuring about getting well by taking care and isolating. 

Furthermore he called me the following day regarding the antiviral options and we decided on one of the 3 options. I was given full information and without any pressure as to which option to choose. My antivirals were ready for collection at RVH pharmacy within two hours.

Three and five days later Dr Shearer called me again to check on my progress and if I needed any further support.

His voice, his careful advice and sympathetic understanding were very reassuring and were far beyond my expectations. There was no rush. In these days of hearing adverse comments on quality of care in the NHS I have nothing but praise, thanks and deep gratitude to this young doctor. He is a tremendous asset and shining example of professional care within our Belfast Trust.