Dangerous disparities in NHS care standards

SIR – I am a long-retired former NHS consultant clinician, and have twice recently been an “emergency admission”.

I have received excellent treatment from the paramedics, ambulance service and stroke units in Maidstone and Ashford.

However, once the crises are over and I am back at home alone, it is almost impossible to speak to any doctor for advice.

When I eventually get through to the hospital department, I am referred to my GP. Then, after a long time trying to speak to someone at the practice, I am told that no slots are available (even for a telephone consultation) and I should “try again tomorrow”.

All communication has to go via the GP, access to whom is controlled by one or more receptionists. They are clearly overworked, having to cope with a mass of inquiries from frustrated patients and their relatives. Of course there is the internet, but many of my generation find it difficult to use. There must be some better mechanism for obtaining semi-urgent medical help.

Keith Ferris, FRCS

Coxheath, Kent

SIR – You have recently published letters from patients afflicted by age-related macular degeneration, describing the difficulties they have experienced obtaining treatment.

I have been attending the eye clinic at Cheltenham Hospital for regular injections for more than four years. In this time the hospital has never missed a scheduled appointment, even during the pandemic. The service has been outstanding.

My last appointment was on August 23, and notification of the next appointment arrived in the post the following day.

I think the secret is a good team of clinicians closely supported by effective management. Some parts of the NHS are really working.

Mike Ostick

Upton upon Severn, Worcestershire