"My GP arranged an urgent referral..."

What I liked

My GP arranged an urgent referral through the NHS Choose & Book system (which I had not heard of) and I attended Bishops Wood hospital within two weeks for my initial consultation. I underwent some procedures and tests, culminating in a colonoscopy a couple of weeks later. I was admitted as a day patient on a Saturday along with about six other NHS patients. I cannot speak highly enough of the quality of care and the staff I've experienced during my visits. My consultant, took great care to explain my condition and the treatment options, illustrated by his rough drawings to aid my understanding. He treated me respectfully and kindly. Everyone else, from nurses to the anaesthetist to the catering manager (who popped in to discuss the lunch menu) were first rate. My procedure went very smoothly and I had no pain or discomfort afterwards. I have since returned to the hospital a number of times as a private patient to undergo minor cosmetic procedures and the care, cleanliness and professionalism has remained consistently high. Bishops Wood is a relatively small hospital and therefore doesn't feel impersonal, cold or daunting.

What could be improved

The bathroom in my en suite room was perhaps a tiny bit tatty and in need of a spruce-up. And sometimes the system at main Reception is a bit odd: greeted by the senior Receptionist only to be swiftly passed across to another, just to be ticked off the appointments list. Other than that, I can't think of any other areas in need of improvement.