"Mine was a very positive experience."

What I liked

I was seen immediately by a consultant when a 24-hour ECG had revealed the need for a pacemaker. A pre-op appointment was arranged shortly afterwards and two weeks later the device was fitted. I was treated with courtesy and competence at every stage by nurses, doctors, administrative and domestic staff.

My situation was not one of immediate urgency but I appreciated the speed and efficiency with which everything was arranged and, of course, the professional skills of the medical and surgical staff.

The entire team has my sincere thanks.

What could be improved

The only negative point is that the hospital menu does not mark gluten-free dishes as such. This would be a small improvement but very significant for coeliac patients. In fact, the very helpful lady who served the meals went to ask the kitchen staff which dishes were gluten-free. She was given the incorrect information that they were marked with a small heart! Of course, those dishes are the ones which are healthy for the heart, ie low in fat etc. but not necessarily gluten-free. I realised that, but incorrect information should not have been given; some patients might have been confused or believed what they were told about the food. Supermarkets and more and more restaurants are aware of gluten-free foods and label them accurately. Surely a hospital should do the same!

Anything else?

My recent experience gave me a very positive impression of the Royal.