"Staff made an uncomfortable situation, comfortable"

I had an appointment today on a bank holiday Monday and I was pleasantly surprised at how relaxed and calm my time was.

At first I didn't have an appointment, but I spoke to a lovely, understanding member of staff on the phone, who said they would let me know if there were any cancellations (as I was ringing up on a day that was not the norm for same day appointments). I received a phone call just a couple hours later, and had a last minute appointment booked for the hour after.

Being a feminine issue, an vaginal examination was necessary and being so last minute, only a male doctor was available. A female receptionist who was fully trained, offered to chaperone me during the examination and this was all done extremely discretely and respectfully. I was very impressed with this. I felt very cared about and I felt they were very aware of it being something quite uncomfortable I was dreading.

The doctor was very informative, reassuring, gentle and kept conversation during the examination so I felt surprisingly relaxed and calm. The doctor was understanding and I left feeling respected and dignified, which I have not at other doctors in the past.