"Positive, helpful and professional staff"

At my latest review appointment, my Oncology Consultant wished to have investigations carried out by urology and endoscopy colleagues. I was given appointments by these departments quite quickly; at Lincoln County hospital at first and then Grantham Hospital - the latter being more convenient for me. I even had to reschedule an appointment because of a clash of dates. The appointment handling staff could not have been more helpful in this and the change was made to suit my circumstances and convenience. 

Investigation procedures began with a trip to Lincoln County hospital cystology department. Although the cystoscopy was incomplete, the staff were professional and thorough in explaining the need for further  procedure to be carried out under anesthetic and they arranged this. 

The pre-op department at Grantham Hospital were also very helpful before I was admitted later to Grantham Day Ward for the Urology procedure. Again, all Day Ward staff were very friendly and professional and afforded the best of care during my stay.  The Urology followup carried out by the nursing staff of the Emerald Suite was thorough, professional and helpful. 

Next was a procedure carried out by the Endoscopy department at Grantham hospital. This was done again in a friendly and professional manner with each stage being fully explained beforehand. The discharge briefing was impressive and I left with a written copy for reference. 

It has been a busy few weeks during which I have felt fully  supported by the all the medical professionals I have dealt with along with the ancillary staff in the appointments departments. All have been flexible and approachable, not only with me but also with other patients that have been in the various departments that I have been. 

I especially admire the professionalism and care given by staff of Grantham Hospital where the future is uncertain. The loss of this valuable resource would be devastating to the local population. 

Lincoln County Oncology department has been, during the past five years that I have been attending, always an incredibly busy place. Nonetheless, the staff have always been positive, helpful and professional, working with grace under pressure. 

In conclusion, my experience of NHS hospitals in Lincoln and Grantham has been positive. Nothing in life is perfect; humans are not perfect, so near-perfect is fine. This applies to NHS hospitals in my area long may they be there to serve us.