"A summary of my NHS Tayside experiences in 2018"

A summary of my NHS experiences in 2018.

Posting as a patient and a parent.

Have no desire to be referred to as a "service user "!

- A&E Ninewells Dundee: 3 visits with rugby playing sons. Ignored by 2 ambulance drivers when I had to deposit my 6'2" seriously concussed son slumped on the grass outside the entrance to A&E so I could park the car and pay(!!!!). He was unable to walk far. He was in rugby kit so obviously not drunk or on drugs. However, another driver saw us, got a wheelchair, and took over, getting us seen promptly. Prompt, efficient and compassionate care. A touch of common sense as doctor elected to run a CT already scheduled for the next day in order to make best use of time/equipment. 5*

- Perth Royal Infirmary Eye Clinic: attending with a teenager in the midst of "Macular Degeneration " day was informative. However, efficient despite being busy and apparently relying on bank nurses. Particularly appreciated watching the patience staff showed towards elderly patients who were slow on their feet. Enjoyed listening to a nurse take time chatting to an elderly lady who had also been a nurse, and worked in PRI. These interactions are what makes healthcare work. 5*

- Orthopaedic referral Ninewells Dundee. Incredibly thorough and personable Trainee Surgeon (meant to check her name but forgot). Listened to my thoughts and explained her own very confidently and compassionately. First class with all the hallmarks of becoming an excellent consultant in future.  5*

- MRI Unit Perth Royal Infirmary: Friendly and professional, despite me having forgotten my appointment and racing in late. 5*

- Tayside Ambulance Service: called out by rugby club on a freezing cold night to my teenage son with a suspected neck injury. Despite repeated calls from myself and concerned coaches, it was almost 2 hours before an ambulance arrived. By this point we were becoming more concerned about hypothermia as he lay flat on a frozen pitch as no-one wanted to move him. One of the team that arrived was wearing wellies and was very unprofessional/did not seem trained. The stretcher was not extended enough to take my 6' plus son. I had to point this out. A stressful experience for all involved. No advice given on any of our calls about keeping my son still or warm. Thankfully, Bells Sport Centre staff rose to the challenge and brought out thermal blankets. Thankfully, I have medical knowledge sp could advise ref the importance of keeping his neck immobile. His coaches are also trained for this. This meant his coach lying on his front in freezing mud keeping my son's head/neck still until the ambulance eventually arrived. 1*

- CAMHS Perth. A mix of well-qualified clinicians doing a hard job whilst being limited by resources and letting children, adolescents, and parents down by poor communication and an apparent lack of compassion.

Poor administration practices. Management seems non-existent, parents feel like a hindrance, and there is very little proactive support for families. Saying that, very positive about some individual clinicians. 3*

- Gynaecology, Perth Royal Infirmary. Consummately professional and empathetic receptionist/nurses/consultant. Made me feel comfortable and relaxed despite the required procedure's unpleasantness. Thoroughly lovely department. 5*

- GP Orwell Practice, Loch Leven Health Centre, Kinross: Excellent care, good communication and a positive mix of pragmatism and compassion. 5*

- Perth Adult Psychological Therapies Service: Quick referral, professional, insightful and compassionate clinician. Calming and pleasant environment (Murray Royal). Too early to pass full judgment so 4*

Summary for NHS Tayside - 4*

Let down by Ambulance Service and CAMHS. More by lack of resources than individuals working to do their best I believe. Somany compassionate, efficient and clinically astute professionals. A shout out also to reception and ancillary staff I have encountered. Most, not all, are polite, friendly and efficient.