"The excellent care I have received"

Excellent care from the staff at the ENT  Outpatient Department of Altnagelvin Hospital.

I was referred to the clinic as I am having issues with my throat/swallow, hoarseness and a tightness in my stomach. The clinic was absolutely packed on my first visit.

My consultant was a Ms Smyth but I was seen by a Dr Mahnood. I apologise if I have got an incorrect spelling for his name. I did ring appointments and they gave me a couple of possible spellings. The appointments were running very late but at no time did I feel that my care was rushed. Dr Mahnood answered my questions, listened to my history and after carefully examining my ears, nose and throat gave me a provisional diagnosis and prescribed treatment. I thought that it was very helpful to get a copy of the letter for my GP.

Unfortunately my follow up appointment was cancelled on the morning of the appointment. The consultant couldn’t make the clinic and there must have been a staff shortage. I was disappointed but understand that the clinic works under a lot of pressure and lacks the staff it needs.

I was very pleased to hear of a replacement appointment a couple of weeks later. I was pleased to see Dr Mahnood as I feel that he is very good at his job. He took time to listen to how I had been, read through the page of notes I had with me. He examined my nose and throat taking the time to explain the pictures to me. He suggested an additional tablet and suggested using salt and water to gargle. He also explained the need for a barium swallow and a scan.

I feel confident that he is very knowledgeable. He anticipated that there would be a considerable wait. There is clearly a good system linking  ENT to appointments as I have received an appointment for a scan next month and my barium swallow has been completed. I know that clinical need dictates waiting lists and indeed appreciate the input of Dr Mahnood and  Ms Smyth to my care.