"Friendly and helpful reception ..."

What I liked

Friendly and helpful reception staff to the main building.

What could be improved

A better resourced fracture clinic. I waited 4 months from referral by my GP for an appointment. The clinic was probably overbooked. My appointment was at 2pm but I left at 4.50pm. When I complained about the length of time it had taken to be seen, I was told that I had been there for as long as he had.

During my visit, my feet were x-rayed by someone who displayed no compassion or interest in me. the patient. On returning to the podiatrist, without discussion, I was given insoles for my shoes (which were cut to fit by a member of staff!) and when I commented that the insoles were so big they wouldn't fit into any of my shoes, I was told to buy new shoes.

During my consultation, I was advised I needed a blood test and ultra-sound scan, however I wasn't refered to either service but I was given a follow-up appointment for 4 month's hence, presumably to see how I'm getting on with my giant insoles. I tried for several days to get through to the department to resolve the non referrals problem, but without success. The phone rang engaged constantly. I gave up and went back to my GP for further advice/help.

Anything else?

The issue of insoles appears to be a 'one solution to all problems'. There was no discussion about how these would help me. They have remained in the cupboard. A total waste of resources which could be better spent elsewhere.