Eastbourne District General Hospital

Outpatients - reception, not enough wheelchairs, signage not clear and many people wait in queue when they should be somewhere else

I met with the ENT Matron and had a very informative allergy appointment. Her knowledge has helped me to reduce the risks I will face with my allergies.

I was sent to Eastbourne because I was losing weight. Had tests done at Brighton Uni + scans. Nothing found, so sent to haematologist and is checked now and again - diagnosed with sjogren's syndrome. It turned out very well and I was treated well.

They did everything they could. I am helping with research on sjogren's syndrome.

All good experiences at the Eastbourne DGH

on arrival put at ease by a member of staff asking, would you like a cup of tea/coffee? all staff helpful and cheerful

Curt and abrupt member of staff but seen very quickly. However some of the comments from the staff member were inappropriate and could have been hurtful had I been a more vulnerable patient! I would add that my consultant on the other hand was thorough and respectful.

I was attending an appointment at the Fracture Clinic, with a suspected fractured big toe.

On arriving at the hospital, I approached the main reception, where a volunteer directed me to the clinic.

At the clinic's reception, I was welcomed by two members of staff who took my notes, checked my details, and explained both the wait time and who I would see.

I waited about 30 minutes beyond my appointment time, which was fine as it was a comfortable environment. I then saw the specialist who said my toe was ok, just very bruised. Again, he explained clearly me scans, and to just keep rested for a few weeks.

It was great to see that he also had someone in there with him who was training.

Checkin - eye clinic - had eye drops, then told to go back to main entrance for re appointment. I queued again, only to learn there is a "fast track" box for posting appointments - why couldn't I be told that in the eye clinic?

Rapid treatment in A&E

On Tuesday 15th January 2015, my Mum who is 89 received a call to say, an emergency eye appointment had been made at the EDGH.

She is unable to walk and she has to rely on patient transport. None could be found for this day, but they could do it on Wednesday 16th. The hospital agreed to this and said they could see her at 1.50pm. I arrived to meet Mum at 1.30. Was was told to be ready at 11am, she however did not arrive at the hospital until 3.30-3.40. Very agitated for being kept waiting for so long, as the transport didn't arrive to pick her up.

She was treated very quickly and was ready to leave at 5pm to l return to Alfriston Court Nursing Home. We and several other patients were still waiting at 7.40. By this time, my Mum had gone without food, drink or a visit to the loo since 11am.

We were taken to the discharge lounge where tea and toast was provided. We were then told that transport could not be provided until 9. This meant that Mum was in her wheelchair for 10 hours. Her legs were swelling because she couldn't elevate them. She got home to no hot food at 9pm. The nursing and Dr care were 5 star however transport is nil.