![]() 1 Some of our outpatient clinics are barely functioning: another of my patients, who is in considerable pain, has had a follow-up appointment postponed twice, the date shifting into 2023. In other parts of the service, the combined effects of underfunding and understaffing-the latter exacerbated by covid absences and the Brexit exodus-have led to long delays for both social and health care. That my patient received good care didn’t surprise me, as I know that the doctors in our local hospitals are expert and attentive it was more that the system had operated as it should, springing into action like a well oiled machine. ![]() This does still happen in today’s NHS, but the fact that this consultation stood out in my mind shows how my expectations have fallen. We can’t always cure, and our ability to relieve suffering also has its limits, but we should be able to reassure patients that we’ll do all we can, that the very best of 21st century western medicine is at their disposal. At a time of great uncertainty my patient reported feeling safe and looked after, knowing that the doctor she saw was fully engaged with her case and care.Īs individuals, we aspire to be that clinician-the one who earns the trust of their patients and makes them feel confident that all of the right things are being done. The patient was seen within a few days, more tests organised, and explanations given, with a promise of telephone follow-up and a treatment plan in 10 days. An unexpected abnormality had shown up on a blood test, and further tests at the GP surgery led to an urgent referral to a hospital clinic. .ac.uk Follow Helen on Twitter: I consulted with a satisfied patient.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |