"My excellent NHS inpatient experience"

I had been apprehensive about having a Laparoscopic cholecystectomy and needed advice, not only from the specialist involved, but from my own GP.

Eventually I decided to go ahead with the operation, which took place in Tameside Hospital on Friday 3rd October, 2008. Given that my other operations had been conducted privately, in excellent conditions, with after care within a room with en-suite facilities, I was not unnaturally nervous at having this operation via the NHS.

However, much to my surprise Ward 16, although a huge female ward, was clean and well run. The bed was spotless, the nursing staff were hard working and I felt well cared for. I can't tell you how important it is to feel cared for, clean, and to feel confident about the doctors and nurses in whose hands one is placed.

My thanks to all the nurses, especially the hard-working auxilliary staff who were on their feet incessantly. This ward is a very well run ward with a dedicated team. Thanks also to Mr Yousef and his team, especially the anaethestist and theatre staff. Well done everyone. You met my exacting standards.