Care Opinion

Text size

Theme

Language

Videos in BSL or ISL
Help with language translation
Help with reading or listening

I don't think you can call it 'Cardiology...

Story from nhs.uk

"I don't think you can call it 'Cardiology..."

About: Central Middlesex Hospital

PALS

Dear Sir/Madam

I was handed a referral letter by my GP and told to attend the Cardiology Drop-In Centre at Central Middlesex Hospital, as I have symptoms that need to be checked. My GP did mention 9.00am; but I took that to mean 'make sure you go'.

The letter itself says 'bring it to the Cardiology Department between 9am and 12pm Monday to Friday'.

I attended the Cardiology Department this morning, only to be turned away. I got an automated speech from the receptionist; because of the 'high demand', they will only accept the first 30 arrivals who attend between 8.00am and 9.30am.

I was trying to get more information from the receptionist, she said her bit then didn't want to answer any questions. I tried to establish if the GP's were aware of the 8.00am to 9.30am timings.

Having spent 2 1/2 hours travelling, the costs involved and no nearer having the symptoms checked. It's very disappointing as you can't just Drop-In at your convenience. There is a very narrow time window, when 'traffic' is at it's worst, etc.

More about:
nhs.uk logo
Do you have a similar story to tell? Tell your story & make a difference ››

Responses

Response from Patient Relations Manager, London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust 6 years ago
We are preparing to make a change
London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust

Submitted on 26/02/2019 at 12:38
Published on Care Opinion on 27/02/2019 at 13:14

Dear Sir/Madam

Thank you for your feedback following your recent visit to the walk in Cardiology clinic at Central Middlesex Hospital.

I am sorry for the inconvenience caused after attending as advised by your GP to be told that we would be unable to see you.

As you were informed on the day, although the clinic itself is open between 9am and 12pm, the clinic operates on a first come first served basis, and once so many patients have arrived, we are unfortunately unable to accommodate anyone else. Your experience has highlighted to us that the advertising and literature around this clinic needs to be reviewed as it is misleading to suggest that you would be able to attend at any time during these 3 hours and be seen.

Our cardiology management team will therefore look to update this information and also share this with our surrounding GP's so that the correct information is given to patients.

I am sorry once again for your experience and thank you again for taking the time to make us aware of it and enable us to make the necessary changes.

Kind regards

Peter Hare

Patient Relations Manager

Opinions
Next Response j
Previous Response k