"An experience not to have to suffer again"

Dear Mr Poppleton Thank you for taking the time to post your comments on NHS Choices relating to your recent experience of our Accident & Emergency Services. I am sorry you were kept waiting prior to being treated. As you are no doubt aware from recent attention from the media, A&E Departments all over the country are experiencing unprecedented activity levels leading to delays in treating patients within the timeframe we would normally be accustomed to. I can only apologise you had to wait three hours before you were reviewed and discharged. With regard to the car parking fees, it is very difficult for patients attending A&E to make a judgement as to how long they are likely to be in the department. You will note from the various signs across the site, patients and visitors are able to “top up” their car parking payments if they initially paid less for their stay than the actual duration of their stay. This can be done when still on site, or by telephone when the individual arrives home, as long as it is before midnight on the day of attendance. I apologise if this information was made clear to you during your visit. Kind regards Lorraine B Lambert Chief Executive