"Blood Tests moved to unsuitable area"

Arrived early on Monday morning to get a blood test. Headed to the Outpatients department to find that the blood taking had moved. Bit of a trek but found it in the Eastwood Centre. Took a number and proceeded to wait, did not have to wait long, which was great. However, the blood taking was now being done, in what almost appears to be a corridor area, some chairs for people to use to wait situated outside a curtained area. The area for waiting is much too small and there is no longer any privacy for patients, as the blood taking is done behind a curtain. You are asked for personal information on arrival to have your blood taken and everyone waiting can hear what is said. I think this is going to make some people very anxious and uncomfortable, having your blood taken can for some be a traumatic experience, this just exacerbates the situation.

This area is completely unsuitable and the staff are very unhappy as they feel they are letting down their patients. The staff were absolutely great, working really hard to ensure all patients were seen really quickly. Really friendly and helpful.

Not sure why this needed to be moved, but the area to which is has been relocated needs to be temporary and a more suitable permanent situation needs to be found to allow patients privacy and dignity.