"Mixed experience, but dissatisfied overall"

Pre-operative arrangements were excellent and highly commendable, especially as I was admitted urgently and essentially had to be 'squeezed' in. Theatre staff were all kind, reassuring and efficient. The same can be said for the ward catering staff, HCA's and the majority of the nursing staff - the ward sister in particular was a godsend. Physiotherapists were patient and understanding.

Unfortunately, I encountered problems with post-operative pain relief and was not given anywhere near sufficient analgesia (in fact, what I was prescribed was essentially less than I was taking pre-operatively) and it took the best part of 24 hours for this issue to be addressed. I have honestly never been in such agony and was effectively just left to it with little assistance or reassurance, and had to endure the nonchalant attitude of one of the male nurses. I was also discharged with inadequate pain relief, though thankfully my GP took over this aspect of my care and ensured I was as comfortable as possible. Additionally, I developed a complication as a result of surgery, and despite mentioning this to several clinicians during my inpatient stay, it was barely acknowledged let alone addressed. Again, it was my GP who sorted the matter.

The follow-up arrangements have been particularly poor. I have not received appointments within the time-frame stated on my discharge papers, and the attending clinician (not my Consultant whom I have not qualms with) has been aloof, utterly dismissive and has sent highly inaccurate correspondence to my GP. I have been struggling with increasing pain and general worsening of symptoms since my surgery, and though I am not in anyway seeking to blame anyone for this, I would at the very least expect for it to be acknowledged. It seems apparent that these problems will not be addressed by the Walton Centre and I am disappointed that this is the case. If it were not for my GP and physiotherapist I would be completely lost.

I am thankful to The Walton Centre for the treatment and care that I have received, and though some aspects have indeed been positive, I must say that I would be reluctant to return for further treatment should it ever be required. I have previously voiced my concerns with the Patient Experience Team, but never received a response. I have no interest in contacting them further.