"I was not a patient, but a visitor ..."

What I liked

I was not a patient, but a visitor of a patient, I arrived about 11.30am due to the fact that the phones were all out of order, and I could not find out how my friend was. The staff did let me in, but were not pleased that I had come. I asked my friend where his medication was (as hospitals are moving now to self medication) or at least that is what is supposed to happen, so that they can take responsibility for their care and future planning, they have to remember when medication is due and take this at home, when all responsability is taken from them in hospital. I would NEVER knowingley choose Pontefract as my choice of care.

What could be improved

Flexability. Treat patients as if they are in their own home and not children.

Visiting hours should be a lot more flexible, both for the family and the patient, if this is difficult in the ward have a day room where they can sit and talk. There are people who work shifts and those who have to rely on someone bringing them, and elderly do not like to be out late.