"Scan Clinic"

I saw my GP about post menopause bleeding and was immediately referred for a scan at the Hospital Clinic. I had to wait a few days for the appointment , and I was seen within the 2 week period recommended by NICE, (which was a surprise considering we are in a pandemic.) Thank you Lincolnshire Trust.

Everyone involved in my care has been extremely kind, understanding and helpful. Although it was disconcerting to be treated so promptly, (it was scary to think I may have cancer), everyone has been very reassuring and competent. I am extremely grateful to the lovely team on the PMB clinic scan team, particularly Nicky, Sharon and Ania.

On the day I was seen the weather was rather cool outside, however the ward was extremely hot and stuffy. Wearing a face mask is a hot experience and being menopausal with hot flushes made the heat of the ward overbearing and very uncomfortable. The staff are not allowed to open the window so the rather unpleasant  task they do is made so much worse. Please can someone help the patients and staff by sorting out the overheating?

Another issue I feel strongly about;

I was disappointed to note that the Clinic was in the maternity ward of the hospital. While I understand the need to streamline and utilize the skills and equipment, I can't help feeling that it is distressing for Menopausal, or other women experiencing fertility issues to be sent to a Maternity ward for their tests and consultations. I felt this way 25 years ago after a miscarriage, and I had hoped that the mental health of ladies suffering difficulties would have been addressed by now. Perhaps a renaming of the area to Gynecology, or something more encompassing, would be kinder. Then once patients arrive there could be more appropriate/sensitive signs for the different disciplines utilized in the ward. After all women in pain and distress do not want to be surrounded by happy expectant mothers. Equally those expectant mothers don't deserve to be in the presence of women who are in discomfort, pain and distress.

I think a little understanding and some simple name changes could go a long way for the mental health of the patients. Also keeping the expectant mothers in a different waiting area may be something to consider. 

Overall my experience has been very good, and I would like some consideration to be made to the impact a name can have.