"Gynae/Oncology Gates 22 & 23, A & E, Radiology..."

Following my initial cancer diagnosis there were some delays that I found frustrating and frightening, however as soon as I had been referred to the specialist Gynae/oncology team things changed. The consultant inspired us with confidence as she outlined the treatment programme that would commence as soon as possible and with the help of the specialist nurses made all the necessary arrangements there and then. Throughout the ups and downs of my treatment programme she and her team have been a source of constant reassurance, for example when I needed them urgent scans and other tests were arranged quickly and results were communicated to us promptly, helping to ease our anxiety and fears.

I received my treatment at gate 23 where the receptionist, the catering staff and the nurses have been wonderful. They are unfailingly caring, professional and however busy they are, have time to listen to your concerns. The treatment areas are not ideal places to spend all day undergoing invasive procedures, patients chairs are close together and only a few have curtains around them. However the staff do their best to protect and respect their patients' dignity.

During my treatment I have had need to call on the 24 hour helpline or visit the oncology ward for assessment. They too have been helpful and responded promptly when I became ill.

Unfortunately on one occasion I had to attend A & E. The staff there acted in a timely fashion and following a discussion with and assessment by the Consultant appropriate tests including x rays were quickly initiated. However a worrying outcome of this was that attempts to contact the on-call Oncologist for advice failed because they had turned off their phone. The A & E consultant was obviously frustrated and embarrassed by this, we were very worried about what would happen if my condition deteriorated.

Through-out my treatment I have had to have several ultra sound, CT or MRI scans, sometimes at short notice. Once again the staff in Radiology have been caring and professional, waiting times have, in the circumstances, been reasonable.

I have had similarly good experiences at my appointments in haematology, although here waiting times can be excessive at busy times.

In conclusion I would say that almost all the staff I have encountered have been a credit to the trust who should be proud of the way they uphold its values and strive to give the best service possible in circumstances which can be very difficult. It is obvious that womens health and gynae/oncology are a 'stretched' department, the waiting room on Gate 22 is often packed and I understand there are not always enough consulting rooms available. My experience leads me to question if they are also under-staffed, which results in very full clinics and over-long waiting times.

On behalf of patients and staff can I make a plea for the Trust to give consideration to better resourcing this vitally important service.