"A first class hospital with a first class..."

Initially, I chose the Shepton Mallet NHS Treatment Centre to have my cataract done, because it was the nearest hospital to me and so most convenient.

It was only then that I discovered how remarkable the centre was, and still is. So several years later, when I needed a total knee replacement, I chose this hospital in preference to any other, simply because of the quality of care I had received previously. Plus the fact that it was free from the infections and viruses that often plague the bigger hospitals.

My subsequent experience of being an inpatient for a few days was of overwhelming admiration for the excellent care and smooth running of the team. I say team because, all the staff, including cleaners, caterers, nurses, surgeons, doctors, physiotherapists, pharmacists, technicians and receptionists were a team, working together in harmony, like a well oiled machine.

Had someone had told me it was that good, I would have said they were exaggerating.... but it is no exaggeration.

Everyone was cheerful, the food was first class and the whole hospital spotless.

The process from referral to operation is a methodical procedure, starting with an initial assessment

Then a short wait for an admission date for the operation.

For day cases, often after the assessment, one can choose a date for the procedure to take place.

The single ward is divided into two-bedded rooms, with an on suit bathroom; each patient is given the use of a telephone ,TV and Wi-Fi.

Three wholesome three-course meals, cooked at the hospital, are served each day, with a choice of menu.

Each room is thoroughly cleaned daily and the physiotherapist team ready to help mobilise patients having orthopaedic surgery.

Every procedure was carefully explained to me and the daily nursing care was exceptional. I was never, at any time, left in pain, hungry, thirsty or anxious.

If ever I needed another procedure done, I would not hesitate in choosing the Shepton Mallet NHS Treatment Centre.