"lack of dignity and compassion shown"

I am currently an inpatient, on a ward in which there are six patients. 

I am utterly appalled to have just had to listen to a consultant telling a patient opposite that they have a terminal illness.   I deliberately use the word had to, as this was done in full earshot of everyone on the ward - with only the curtain pulled round to maintain an element of privacy. 

I think the person concerned should have been afforded the courtesy and the dignity of being told this news in private.   Furthermore, everyone else present should not have had to witness this.

The consultant appeared to have had some trainee doctors with them.  I think this is an appalling example to set potentially our doctors of tomorrow. 

Bad news of this nature may well be routine to many in this hospital, but each and every instance should be conducted in a manner that preserves the feelings and dignity of the person and persons affected.

God bless the person concerned.