"Superb professional with the personal touch"

I was a NHS patient who attended the Goring Hall hospital in July for a total hip replacement. The whole process starting with initial assessments by the consultant, the pre-operation medical assessment and then the operation and follow up physio and checks by the consultant was so very reassuring and professional. I always felt that any concerns or questions I might have were dealt with great consideration. Nothing was too much for the consultant and the hospital team. The staff are so very friendly, thorough and a credit to the hospital. I was naturally a little concerned about the operation, what it would involve, pain control and what the post operative experience would be. I should not have worried. Everything was thoroughly explained to me and great attention given to pain control and discomfort. I was surprised, having a had another operation about two years ago, how little the pain and discomfort there was. The consultant called in to see me after he had completed his procedures for the day and let me know how my operation had gone. I was given lots of attention by the nursing and support team. The next day the physios visited me and had me up and about, initially on a frame and then with sticks plus providing practical guidance on what I should and shouldn't do. They encourage you to be up and about but also not to overdo it. I thought I would be in hospital for about three nights but things went so well that I was able to home after two nights. All of this was managed so well by the team. I was given lots of advice and support on who to contact if I had any concerns or problems after I left the hospital. They provide lots of backup. After the operation I had two physio visits followed by a check by the consultant after 6 weeks. The physios provided lots of practical advice on what exercises to do (and what not to do) which has really helped with my recovery. Progress has been great. I have undertaken lots of exercise and walks as prescribed and after 6 weeks I have clearance to go swimming, cycling and start up golf again. All of this to be done with caution of course but it's been terrific to be able to start these activities up again. The impact of the new hip has also been fantastic. It's really given me back a quality of life. Overall I can only say to those who are preparing for or thinking about the need for a hip operation at Goring Hall there is no need for any anxieties. It's been a first class experience by a top class staff team and consultant and oh the food's not bad as well!