mostly david ephgrave

The level of care the NHS achieves despite having Jeremy Hunt at the helm and such terrible funding is exceptional. They're vital, and yet the press and our Government abuse them; what’s more important to us than the heath of the people we care about? My dad went into hospital yesterday with a condition that escalated rapidly while I was by his side in A&E and on the ward, and the kindness and efficiency of every doctor, nurse or staff member we came into contact with was something else. This is the fourth occasion I’ve been witness to a situation like this - though yesterday’s was the most extreme - and the story’s been the same each time; this extends to when I've been a patient too. This consistency only reinforces what an exceptional service the National Health provides; for me, my dad's treatment was obviously of paramount importance, yet our hospitals see a never-ending stream of people in need, with friends and family to whom...

Today, I made an unexpected trip to A&E, which I suppose is what most A&E visits tend to be. Thankfully, it wasn’t for anything too serious. The problem wasn’t mine but my dad’s and was linked to a long-running condition and - while I don’t think the doctors are too concerned - it has resulted in him staying in overnight, which is obviously the best place for him to be if he isn’t well. What was notable throughout my time there today (as it always is when I’ve been in a similar situation) is how incredibly caring and committed the staff there tend to be. The service they provide is exceptional, not least when you consider the punishing work hours and the lack of funding and support the NHS gets from the government, despite providing perhaps our most vital service. Still, at least Theresa May’s cabinet reshuffle this week resulted in Jeremy Hunt maintaining his post as Health Secretary, which can only be due to the fantastic job he does. ...