"Much improved"

Anything else?

Based on previous experiences of Worthing Hospital it has improved enormously, especially the cleanliness and the level of patient care. There is still scope for more recognition that the patient is not just a collection of organs each dealt with by a particular consultant, but overall it was a very positive experience. We were grateful for the one consultant who did take responsibility for total care.

Staff were always very busy but were mostly very caring. At weekends, staffing levels were very low and it was sometimes difficult to get painkillers or antibiotics when they had not been prescribed on the Friday.

It is sad that the hospital no longer offers specialist surgery and that some patients have to be transferred to remote hospitals for treatment. Little thought is given to the effects on careers and dependents. There was also little support offered for terminally ill patients or bereaved relatives.

There were problems coordinating home care with the district team and this resulted in a longer stay in hospital than should have been needed.