"I had a major abdominal operation ..."

What I liked

I had a major abdominal operation at the Royal Hospital in Chesterfield on the 1st November 2007 and was discharged 8 days later to the Whitworth Hospital for the start of convalescence where I stayed in the Birchover Ward for 11 days.

I have nothing but praise for the Whitworth hospital. It was such a relief to leave the noisy, hectic environment of Chesterfield Hospital where everyone was busy ‘chasing their own tails’ and go to the restful, peaceful and calm atmosphere of the Whitworth Hospital located in beautiful country surroundings.

The members of staff were kind, helpful, considerate and professional. One of the nurses remarked that at the Whitworth Hospital she could nurse, the profession she trained for, rather than spending her time form filling in a large hospital.

Patients who are mobile can eat together in the dining room or use the common room or conservatory to watch television or chat or just be on their own. Visiting time is from 2pm until 8pm.

My 11 days at the Whitworth were stress free and certainly speeded up my recovery.

What could be improved

As a patient in the hospital I could not see anything in patient care which needs improving. However I was aware of some hostility by the larger hospital to move me to the Whitworth even though my GP requested it. The larger hospital was also very slow in forwarding my notes to the Whitworth. All a matter of politics I understand.