"Excellent Care and Treatment"

This was an excellent experience from start to finish. I think I speak for many people when I say I’m not keen on hospital treatment or anything which involves pain. So knowing I was having an eye operation in a hospital was daunting.

My husband had a similar procedure about six years ago at The Circle, Bath so there was no question where I wanted to go, because his treatment and operations had been good.

The initial appointments to discuss the treatment were really helpful. I was given all the options and had the procedure clearly explained to me. My questions were answered in a professional yet friendly and caring manner. I wasn’t made to feel ridiculous asking questions, or that I was delaying the doctor. I was treated at all times with a balanced blend of dignity, professionalism and friendliness. I felt welcome at the hospital rather than a nuisance or just a number on a production line. ( Many other hospitals could work on this approach).

The reception staff, the front of house “face” of the hospital were very efficient and everything was handled in a competent and efficient manner, but also to set me at ease and be welcoming. One of the first impressions of other hospitals is the inefficient, couldn’t care less attitude of many reception staff, and its one of my main complaints of the Royal United Hospital. Bath.

The relaxed yet organised atmosphere of The Circle, the smooth running of each department, and the fact that you get smiles from members of staff all adds to the ambience. Also there aren’t groups of staff chattering and joking while frustrated patients wait for them to finish frivolous conversations. It’s not that the staff aren’t friendly with each other, but that they approach their roles in a professional way and work diligently to help patients. It’s clearly evident that patients are their priority. I think their approach is really beneficial for patients. In fact, in the booklet about the hospital and treatment, patients are addressed as “guests”, and that attitude is reflected in treatment from entry to exit of the hospital.

My treatment was a day clinic, but I was given such care and kindness, and helped to understand what was happening, why and when. My well-being and comfort was treated as being paramount. It may seem strange to say “ kindness”, but when you’re nervous and feel out of control ( as people do who go to hospital) then this word explains how I was treated by all the nurses and my surgeon.

Usually when you go to hospital your individualism, control over what happens to you, dignity, personal preferences and privacy are left at the front door. You become a number on a conveyor belt. Not here.

I know it’s a comparatively small hospital but if all hospitals had the same concern for their patients things would be a great deal better in the NHS.

To sum up..The Circle, all its staff, the cleanliness of every area, the welcoming attitude from start to finish, aftercare and follow up treatment are all superlative.