"Exceeded my expectations!"

In the past few weeks I have attended the Pre Assessment Clinic, the Day Surgery unit (DOSA) and the Urgent Care unit.

On all occasions I have nothing but praise for the various departments.

Despite having had several operations over the years, in many different hospitals, I remain a fairly well informed but highly anxious patient!

Chase Farm has really surprised me with its level of care.

Now that my brain is less befuddled from the anaesthetic, I felt I must write and express my gratitude and provide some information which I hope will help other patients-to-be.

The Pre Assessment Clinic set the tone with lovely staff who took time to explain my forthcoming procedure clearly and sensitively. The whole process was very efficient, even when I was anxious about being sent for a second ECG at Barnet. They communicated really well by phone, as did the staff manning the Admissions Team phones.

I had to speak to them several times after being put on the waiting list re possible dates for my surgery and they were always patient and helpful.

On the morning of my operation the DOSA staff made me feel welcome and reassured - not an easy thing when dealing with a somewhat neurotic patient!

All the staff including the anaesthetist and consultant, took time to explain everything and answer my (many) questions.

The operation went well and I was back in Wellington Ward mid-morning.

The sister in charge was superb as were the team. It was a short stay ward with patients only staying a few hours or overnight.

The ward was kept clean and special attention was paid to the bed and surrounding area once a patient had left for home.

I cannot comment on the food as I was too nauseous to eat anything but others seemed to have found it fine.

I was discharged at the end of the day with my painkillers - no follow up needed.

I was pleased my op was over.

Unfortunately, my recovery was slower than expected and my wound was causing concern as it was very swollen and sore.

After a few days I returned to Chase Farm Urgent Care Centre.

Once again, the treatment I received was excellent by all the staff.

The GP in charge was extremely thorough and agreed that my swelling was unusually large.

Unfortunately, that was where link with Chase Farm ended as there are no surgical on-call doctors there anymore and my wound needed dealing with surgically.

The GP rang ahead and tried to make it easier for me once I reached Barnet A&E.

The contrast between the relative calm haven of Chase Farm and the manic state of affairs in Barnet is a story for another time.

But even with all that pressure, their staff were brilliant.

Whatever systems have been put in place, especially with regard to communications, and whatever training has been undertaken, Chase Farm has really benefited - and so will the patients - as my positive experience demonstrates.

Thank you to all - you deserve medals.

Bravo NHS!