"I am very pleased with the overall service from..."

What I liked

I have been an outpatient at the Pacing Clinic since 2006. I transferred to Harefield from St Bartholomews Hospital because I live much nearer to there. Harefield has dealt with my defibrillator aftercare as well as my open heart surgery aftercare. My experience has been very positive and I have been well looked after by the entire cardiac team there.

I have standing instructions from my clinic that if ever I have any questions about my care, I can call anytime and will be put through to a technician or, if necessary, a cardiologist, to discuss my concerns.

What could be improved

My only criticism is that when my ICD's *Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator* battery started to exhibit a drop in its power charge, the hospital did not get me in for replacement surgery for about 6 weeks. I almost missed my daughter's wedding but, luckily, they got me in and did the deed just in time. It was close.

Anything else?

My final comment is very positive, happily. The Pacing Clinic recommended that I apply for the Carelink service which means my ICD is interrogated by a modem on my bedside table every three months, thereby reducing my hospital visits to once a year. This is great.