"A level of care that the NHS' reputation is..."

I am truly shocked by the 3 star rating. The reviewers cannot be providing truly considered reviews.

I was referred to this department as a result of concerning symptoms described to my GP. I was seen within a week on an emergency referral, in spite of it being a two week wait generally. Upon examination (camera in my nose), I displayed no concerning symptoms to the specialist, yet i was referred to the MRI department of the hospital to rule out any deeper lying, more concerning issues (i.e. Cancer, pretty much) as a result of the discomfort i was suffering.

My appointment with the MRI department occurred within ten days of my initial appointment with the ENT. I asked the radiologist(?) conducting the MRI whether or not there was anything of concern that "jumped out at them" and they responded by telling me the scan would be forwarded on a non-urgent basis. This really helped with the quite significant anxiety i was suffering leading up to the scan.

Then a short wait of 10 or so days until i received a letter for a follow up appointment. Queue return of anxiety. I called the department and inquired about this appointment and was told it was nothing out of the ordinary and that everyone who received a scan has a follow up appointment. Queue reduction in anxiety once again.

I attended my follow up appointment and was greeted by a smiling consultant which pretty much alleviated all stress. I sat down and was told nothing, other than a small, almost symptomless cyst, was present and almost melted in my seat in relief.

I was convinced i had cancer. The department provided me with swift, efficient and professionally delivered conclusions to the contrary. It's 5 weeks since my last smoke and i have no intention of starting again. I have changed my diet and joined a gym. This department was a fundamental part of me turning my life around in an attempt at undoing some of the harm i inflicted upon myself. I am truly thankful and hope someone from that department reads this and is reassured by the appreciation that some people have for their work.

Thank you.

PS

Please fight against the privatisation of the health service as i wouldn't have been able to afford this level of care in three lifetimes. The MRI alone would have cost an American close to $40,000.