Evidence of NHS working like clockwork

[Teaandsympathy34]

I work in the NHS and I'm so used to the negative comments about how it's broken, that its slipped into my mindset. I accept things as they are instead of expecting better. But my experience today has been an eye opener.

I had an urgent referral for a breast lump and was seen within 2 weeks at a brand new breast centre today. Within an hour and a half I had: seen the consultant for an examination, had a mammogram, had an ultrasound, saw the consultant for the (thankfully normal) results. There were lots of patients there but everything just ran efficiently. Obviously I'm relieved but it's also given me my confidence back that things can work in the NHS. Without hesitation, I praised the staff for the amazing service they are providing.

I have been being seen by the orthopaedic department following a fractured dislocation. It's been great. Staff were professional, friendly. Things rang to time, given good and helpful information. Saw the same consultant. Was excellent.

My little girl broke her arm 2 weeks ago. We went straight to A&E. Seen immediately. Offered pain relief. Xrayed within an hour. Saw the orthopaedic registrar within another hour. Sedated. Arm reset and casted and surgery booked for the following day.
The next day we were told surgery at midday. Actually got called down at 9.30am to theatre and she was in recovery by 10.45.
Every subsequent appointment has been on time and excellent service. Couldn’t be happier with how it’s all gone and the amazing care they’ve given us

I've worked for the NHS for 28 years, but this weekend I absolutely had experience of it working like clockwork when I tripped over my dog smashed my face and went to A&E had a CT scan and treatment and was home within five hours

On a Saturday night in a city centre.

I will never tolerate NHS bashing! It's amazing.

Yes I must say I've always had positive experiences with NHS. Some wait times but I'm also realistic so I expect them therefore they don't upset me.

There are definitely pockets that work. I saw GP Monday morning (two days ago), referred on urgent referral pathway to dermatologist. Saw dermatologist this morning. Appointment on time, so I was seen, given treatment and had prescription fulfilled on hospital grounds all within half an hour.

Everyone was kind and professional.

Small community hospital, if that makes any difference.

It depends. Getting to see a doctor for non- emergencies where I live is about 5 weeks, which is not great. But in January I was signed off work by my doctor and fast tracked for cancer screening. I had bloods taken the next day, CT scan and ECG the following week and a doctor's appointment to discuss the results a week later. I was very impressed with the speed of the appointments and all the NHS staff I came into contact with were lovely. Fortunately, I don't have cancer.

My Dad has a weird type of leukemia caused by previous cancer treatments. Blood test on Friday as usual. Results on Monday, again as usual. Straight into oncology on Tuesday for a blood transfusion and now he's feeling the best he has for ages. Thank you NHS and everyone who works there

My GP referred me for a DEXA scan unprompted by me. Hospital appointment within two weeks, appointment on a Friday, results and updates for treatment on NHS app by Tuesday.

I'd agree with the pockets.

I've had fantastic experiences for both myself and my children and I'm very grateful. But unfortunately ATM my children are also being majorly let down by several services and it's a full time job trying to get their needs met.

My cancer diagnosis went like absolute clockwork once I was referred to the breast clinic.
More recently, going to OOH with stomach pain, then to A&E with suspected appendicitis (it was!), and having an appendectomy, was really excellent and couldn't be faulted.

Same. Bloods last week, major deficiency diagnosed Friday. Treatment started Monday ❤️

At our GP surgery if you arrive before 11am you get seen that same day, if you’re at door just before 8am then you’ll be seen and back home by 9am. The system annoyed me to start with but actually it works really well.

We had a paediatrician referral where the appointment came through in 2 months. I thought that was pretty good.

My step daughter is currently in A and E with a possibly serious problem. DH rang to let me know at 5.30 that he was taking her. 4 hours later they have done the 30 minute drive, been triaged, tests and X rays carried out. Last I heard she was being seen by the Dr. Excellent service. Just anxiously waiting for more news now.

The burns team at Southmead Hospital and my GP were amazing.

The online booking system for the GP is such an improvement. Sent a message at 08:20, call back at 08:40 asking if I could get there for 09:00. Was home by 09:30. Pretty impressive.

Thanks all -its so heartening to hear the good stuff. I completely understand @BeSharpBee that there are services that aren't working well. Our waiting lists are huge, but there are movements in the right direction. I hope your children get the treatment they need shortly.

My GP surgery is amazing! If I pop in with a poorly kid they usually see us straight away and even during lockdown, I rang them, the actual GP answered the phone and after I explained the issue they prescribed what I needed and 20mins later they passed it out the door to me!

Yes, you are right, OP. We get so used to slating it that we sometimes forget about the good stuff.