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"Limitations in the clinic's facilities and system"

About: Mater Hospital / Macular Unit

(as a relative),

My great-grandmother, who is in her 90s, has been facing challenges when attending the clinic for over 10 years. The clinic's facilities and parking arrangements have been less than ideal, making it difficult for patients like my great-grandmother, who require assistance due to sight issues. The limited parking spaces often make it hard to find a suitable spot that accommodates her mobility needs.

During our last visit, we were informed that she would only be assessed instead of receiving the necessary treatment in the same visit. This means we would have to make an additional trip, which can be physically and emotionally taxing for a frail elderly person. The reason for this change was explained as an effort to align with English hospitals and their shorter waiting lists. However, I expressed my concerns to a staff member, emphasising the impact of this decision on my great-grandmother's well-being. Unfortunately, our concerns were not given much attention, and we were told that most patients at the clinic are elderly and face similar challenges.

While I appreciate the professionalism and courtesy of the staff, it is evident that there are limitations in the clinic's facilities and system. It seems that they are operating at full capacity and doing their best within their means. However, I believe it is crucial to prioritise the individual needs of patients, especially elderly ones, rather than solely focusing on reducing waiting lists. The current approach may compromise the quality of care and the overall well-being of patients.

I believe it is important for the clinic management and authorities to take note of these issues and address them promptly. Improving the facilities and adopting a patient-centric approach could greatly enhance the experience for elderly patients like my great-grandmother. By investing in their comfort and well-being, the clinic might ensure a more positive and supportive environment for everyone.

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Responses

Response from Wendy Dobbin, Interim Assistant Service Manager, Ophthalmology, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust 2 weeks ago
We are preparing to make a change
Wendy Dobbin
Interim Assistant Service Manager, Ophthalmology,
Belfast Health and Social Care Trust
Submitted on 15/04/2024 at 11:20
Published on Care Opinion at 11:23


Dear statuspe83

Thank you for your email which very articulately describes the pressures reflecting the Macular Service, namely the limited parking facilities available close by.

As you have alluded to, the appointments system was changed last summer, to ensure full utilisation of the injection slots, thereby reducing the waiting times for patients between those injections. I apologise that you feel that your great grandmother has been negatively impacted by this change in Clinic protocol, and appreciate the difficulties she must be facing with her mobility each time she visits.

The Macular Service has plans at an advanced stage, regarding expansion into the adjoining building, increasing the number of rooms available and thereby allowing patients to be treated in a more timely manner, including the option of same day treatments again. The Estates work is anticipated to start later this year.

I apologise for the limited parking at the Clinic. It is likely that the parking spaces used by the disabled staff working in the adjoining building, will be freed up when they relocate, thereby providing more parking spaces for the Macular Clinic patients.

Kind regards

Wendy

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