Patricia de Beer writes:

Being a patient at Stanger Hospital is a test of patience and endurance.

As an outpatient, waiting to see a doctor or collect medication sometimes stretches to an astonishing three hours just to retrieve a file, before another wait to see the doctor begins.

For inpatients, the experience can be a mixed bag. While some staff exhibit exceptional care and dedication, others seem disinterested and apathetic.

During my stay, I encountered both ends of the spectrum. One standout nurse went above and beyond, caring and attentive, ensuring my comfort by providing hot water for my coffee brought from home, despite facing reprimand later.

This level of care was overshadowed by numerous deficiencies.

Among these are:

• No doors in the showers.

• No toilet seats.

• No hot water for a bath.

• Water flooding on the bathroom floors all the time even when showers are not in use.

• No bells to call for help if needed when in the toilet or shower.

• Wheelchairs in a state of disrepair making them difficult to use and potentially hazardous.

• The food is hardly edible. Specific dietary meals are not allocated, for example no special diet for diabetic patients.

• Pillows and blankets are not supplied, you must take your own.

• No hot water in the female surgical ward, apparently for the last two months.

During excruciating bouts of pain, attempts to call for assistance were futile, caused by the absence of bells. In moments of dire need, three nurses entered the ward, despite me calling out, only to glance indifferently and depart, leaving me to suffer.

Not only did I experience this myself but I witnessed it happening to other patients too. The lack of care and empathy is sorrowful and leaves the patients in an uncomfortable, often painful, unkept and undignified state.

Every patient is entitled to dignity, compassion and respect. It’s a fundamental principle that should determine every interaction, sparing patients the indignity of being left vulnerable and unsupported, even for the most basic needs.

(At the time of going to print, the hospital has not responded to a request for comment – Ed).

Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news.

Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here or if you’re on desktop, scan the QR code below.