"Lack of consultation privacy"

Having had chemotherapy treatment at the Galton Unit, I have to say that having to have a telephone consultation with my "locum" Oncologist about my treatment both current and ongoing, in front of other patients because there was nowhere private for me to have my consultation, is very poor indeed. Its' bad enough not being able to see my Oncologist face to face, but to have what should be a private conversation about my current health, side effects and how I am currently feeling, in front of a room full of other patients who also don't particularly want to hear what I have to say, is an absolute disgrace. Despite being attached to an intravenous drip, that doesn't mean you can't wheel the equipment that you are attached to, with you. I had informed the staff the first time round that my Oncologist was going to call me during my treatment and was there a room free that I would be able to use to have my telephone consultation. I was told no - there wasn't. So not only did this happen once, but for a second time during my last chemotherapy as well when he rang me. Absolutely no privacy at all. I would also add that Medway needs to get its Oncology support in some sort of order. Whilst the "locum" looking after my case has been very nice, it shouldn't be that the patient has no idea who will be looking after them in two or three months time when the present "locum" leaves the position. I haven't seen an Oncologist since February 2021. Consultations have been over the telephone. My understanding is that he currently covers Maidstone, Tunbridge Wells and Maidstone hospitals. A clear case of overstretching his workload. Its' all very well telling cancer patients that they are vunerable and the "team" are there to support the patient every step of the way. Well, I'm afraid that is not my experience. On a positive note, from the day I discovered the problem back in early November to final diagnosis at the beginning of December 2020, the process was extremely quick. However the first part was carried out at the Spire Hospital due to the Covid situation. From then until January 2021all was fine. Then I'm afraid it all went downhill. Yes Covid has been a nightmare for all of the medical professions let alone the general public, but that doesn't mean that patients should have to have their consultations, especially because they have to be via the telephone, in front of other patients. When you are in a ward, at least a curtain is pulled around you for privacy for your discussion with the Doctors.