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"Waiting times could be more transparent"

About: Torbay Hospital / Ear, Nose and Throat

(as the patient),

I went for a routine follow up appointment today at the ENT Clinic. Unfortunately the consultant I was due to see, Mr Reece, was delayed and I saw him just over an hour later than expected. I appreciate that the clinic is busy but I have attended on about five occasions in the past couple years and never been seen on time. I'm not sure whether this is because appointments are just unrealistically scheduled or whether Mr Reece is just too nice! The reason given always seems to be that 'patients need more time'.

When I went into the consulting room I noticed the whiteboard outside, that details how delayed clinics are and the reason for it. Unfortunately I hadn't noticed it earlier as it's behind you as you report to the reception desk and I was sat down a side corridor.

I'd like to suggest that either someone checks the scheduling for this clinic and/or that the whiteboard or current delays are drawn to your attention on arrival. This small change in practice would alleviate concerns about parking running out and leave patients feeling much more informed. Thank you.

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