In-Reply-To: <[log in to unmask]>
My point is not what a wonderful dream it might be but that we (via BAEM)
need to lay down some service standards that actually result in improved
delivery of service.
I see no reason why anyone should wait more than an hour to see us. I also
do not accept the argument that it will invite work. We all know of times
when the category 5 person meanders in and gets seen immediately as the
department happens to be slack. In the last month for which I have
figures readily to hand (Jan 2000) we saw 81% of patients within an hour.
Many departments are already achieving good figures - let us point out to
the Government what small amounts of investment are required (and yes, how
it needs to be spread round the country to equalise departments; I have
chosen several things in the wishlist that my Trust already achieves such
as 24 hour pathology and radiology services) to improve people's
perception both patients and health care providers.
What I only alluded to was the improvements required in beds within the
hospitals which will stop patients clogging up departments for hours. It
is, in fact, comparatively small numbers, but the effect they have on
nursing care needed and loss of space is disproportionately large.
Best wishes,
Rowley Cottingham
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