"Excellent A &E Dept; Well-organised, efficient,..."

While staying with friend in the area, I developed some chest pain and difficulty in breathing deeply one evening. This doesn't usually happen to me after a walk around Wembury and a meal in the local pub!

After a sleepless night and still in pain the next day my friend insisted we go to A&E. [My own London GP had not phoned back].

From the receptionist, to the nurses, health care assistants, doctors,and the helpful porter, everyone was calm, quietly efficient, and caring.

I was seen quickly and then assessed by a senior nurse, and then by a doctor.. They explained about the tests that were needed in a way that was both imformative and reassuring. Bloods were taken by an efficient friendly nurse and then a health care assistant with the same qualities of caring.

A quiet professional, friendly radiographer took an X-ray.

My friend was able to accompany me, and another friend also felt cared for and enjoyed a chance to talk with other patients and relatives. The good atmosphere created by the staff encouraged everyone waiting to befriend one another.

While we waited for the test results, we spent some time in the lounge, a siting area away from the A&E. Again the atmosphere was good. We were offered refreshments, and generally 'kept in the loop' as regards time, etc. We were also giving very helpful advice about the car parking situation from a porter later on.

The doctor who saw me before I was discharged was excellent. The main possible diagnosis was negative, which was great! There was a slight problem which showed up on my CXR, which they showed me and explained that it would be good to have a further one in a month's time following any treatment by my GP in London. They gave me a copy of the letter there and then, as well as advice about simple pain relief.

In short, an outstanding team in an outstanding hospital. I appreciate your professionalism and empathy. and commitment to working in our NHS