"From GP to A&E"

I had a severe abdominal pain. Chagford Medical Centre were called first thing that morning and I was examined by Dr Wood within 1 hour.

Sadly the condition got progressively worse and I had to use the 111 service. I was able to be seen in Newton Abbot Out of Hours GP by Ben, who gave a probable alternative diagnosis and prescription.

When the late night pharmacist could not dispense due to a computer failure, Newton Abbot took necessary action to dispense from their supplies to ensure prompt medication.

When the condition worsened the next day, 111 are again polite, careful and thorough but raising enough concern to visit A&E Exeter ASAP.

Only half an hour into waiting for the medics to come, I got a very reasonable call to advise a long waiting time for an ambulance and transport suggestions while gauging to level of urgency. I was able to call on a good neighbour for transport and 111 called me back within 10 minutes to confirm this was possible and forwarded all the information to A&E.

Once there they were increasingly busy but I have to say everybody, from Triage to Doctor, was calm, professional, attentive and clearly explained both the process and my condition. Tests and a careful diagnosis allowed for my safe discharge. This took several hours but I was clearly in safe hands and reassured at every stage.

The time was perfectly understandable given the patient load. I was so impressed at every stage by the quality of NHS care. While reluctant to be too demanding on the service, each practitioner was firm in processing me to escalating the matter in their best considered opinion. The service provided to me was 5 star and I cannot thank every single person involved enough.