"5 star NHS care on Tayside"

I had a bad fall on my right hip at the beginning of July and thought I'd strained a muscle. I was more or less able to cope for a fortnight but the discomfort didn't seem to be diminishing. I contacted the Kirriemuir Medical Practice just over a week later and was able to see a GP the same morning, who referred me to Stracathro Hospital for an x-ray on two days later.

Stracathro x-ray immediately contacted a GP at my Practice, who rang me to say I'd broken my hip and so she had arranged for an emergency admission to the Acute Surgical Receiving Unit at Ninewells Hospital. I was assessed by two Orthopaedic registrars who clearly explained my options but recommended surgery. From there I was temporarily transferred to Orthopaedic Ward 17 until the Consultant had had time to examine the x-rays and discuss options with his team. There seemed little doubt that a total hip replacement would be the best option, which I accepted.

I was then transferred to Orthopaedic Ward 18 in readiness for surgery. The operation went well and I was discharged two days after being admitted to ward 18.

So far, this is simply the bare bones of events following my fall. What it lacks is an account of the superlative care I received from the moment I contacted my medical practice to the point of discharge from hospital. I cannot praise highly enough the care and consideration of every member of the clinical team, including the surgeons, anaesthetists, nurses and other health care professionals. Whilst the superb skills of the Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeons and Anaesthetists determine the outcome of every orthopaedic procedure, the nursing care at ward level is extremely important. I found that every possible assistance was quickly and willingly provided. The conviviality of the nurses was not simply enjoyable but part of their professional role as care givers. No request for help went unheeded. And the physio team ensured I became mobile as soon as possible.

In sum, I cannot praise too highly the professional care provided at every level of NHS Tayside involved in my case. And last but not least, as a vegan I had no great expectation of hospital food. I couldn't have been more mistaken - the range of options and quality of food provided could scarcely have been bettered.

Finally, at discharge I was provided with the loan of a walking frame and crutches, together with a range of necessary medication. I actually don't have the words to express how extremely grateful I am to all the care staff involved, and I hope this positive feedback will reach at least some of them.