"Disabled chap"

My 60 year old brother is profoundly disabled with complex issues and was admitted with what we thought was a chest infection but which had developed into pneumonia.

From the arrival of the paramedics who immediately saw a connection between his confusion and the chest infection (we had assumed it was a symptom of his seizures), he was in A&E and on broad spectrum IV antiviotics within two hours from the on call GP seeing him at home.

The sepsis was confirmed but they didn't rely just on this, checking thoroughly for bleeds on the brain to meningitus because he was complaining of neck head and neck pain. Trying to intepret symptoms of an ill patient is always challenging, but with his learning disabilities, very limited speech and pre-existing physical limitations making sure the had missed nothing with my brother was extremely difficult for them.

But they held absolutely nothing back and the medical attention was surpassed only by the compassion. Have to say, the A&E team looked scarily young, but that probably says more about me than them!

But they were truly exceptional.

The nursing staff on Ward 11 likewise, showed nothing but sensitivity, professionalism, skiill and heart.

The hospital itself is very clean, modern, fresh and with patient access to wifi, it meant my brother could listen to his streaming device which ensured he was calm and comforted.

I grew up in an NHS family and a childhood in and out of hospitals with my brother and then our son.

Our experience at Pembury was a model of care and facilities.

What a truly fantastic hospital.

if I had one teeny suggestion, the signage in reception is information overload.

Confusing, unclear, and when first entering the hospital, I would suggest could be streamlined so that it's clear where you can get information and the layout of the hospital.

Just as badges need minimum info - name, job title and the hospital logo, maybe take the same approach in reception.