hello all, much to my annoyance my operation at the northern general on monday has been cancelled, they have said i can have the op at claremont on friday, which i have agreed to, heres the question. Has anyone had an operation here, if so, were you happy with the care? kaz:)

hello all, much to my annoyance my operation at the northern general on monday has been cancelled, they have said i can have the op at claremont on friday, which i have agreed to, heres the question. Has anyone had an operation here, if so, were you happy with the care? kaz:)

This happened to my dad a few years ago when nothern general cancelled on him. From what I can remember he was happy with the treatment at the claremont. He got his own room :)

i got my own room - same happened to me couldnt do op at rhh so went to claremont - take up the offer it was nice

hello all, much to my annoyance my operation at the northern general on monday has been cancelled, they have said i can have the op at claremont on friday, which i have agreed to, heres the question. Has anyone had an operation here, if so, were you happy with the care? kaz:)
should think yourself lucky. Claremont is a very nice private hospital with single rooms, better food and top class care. Beats the NHS although they do try:thumbsup:

Obviously the surroundings are nicer than NHG or RHH youll get your own room etc but a friend who recently had a operation there (he paid for it aswell) said the care was no where near up to the standard of NHS.

My nan had her knees replaced there after her operations at the Northern General were cancelled. She was treated like royalty and was very pleased with how things went.

My nan had her knees replaced there after her operations at the Northern General were cancelled. She was treated like royalty and was very pleased with how things went.

My aunt was in Claremont and her doctor friend paid for the operation. That must say a lot, and my father was in there and had excellent treatment.

hello all, much to my annoyance my operation at the northern general on monday has been cancelled, they have said i can have the op at claremont on friday, which i have agreed to, heres the question. Has anyone had an operation here, if so, were you happy with the care? kaz:)

hiya am awaiting to go in claremont, so no help as yet, i have been told its very nice.

Good luck with the operation and your care whilst in.:)

hello all, much to my annoyance my operation at the northern general on monday has been cancelled, they have said i can have the op at claremont on friday, which i have agreed to, heres the question. Has anyone had an operation here, if so, were you happy with the care? kaz:)

My friend had her babies there - it was lovely

My friend had her babies there - it was lovely

Well i didn't no they did maternity there, you learn something everyday. :)

Well i didn't no they did maternity there, you learn something everyday. :)

Hmm I wonder if I just made that up then :huh:
I thought it was there, but of course I could be wrong. I'll have to check with her tomorrow now or it will drive me mad !!!

Hmm I wonder if I just made that up then :huh:
I thought it was there, but of course I could be wrong. I'll have to check with her tomorrow now or it will drive me mad !!!

LOL,:hihi: , you are probably right,

same happened to my wife she went in thornbury it was like a hotel

same happened to my wife she went in thornbury it was like a hotel

A HA !!!! That was it.

She didn't go to Claremont !!! It was Thornberry !!!

Hmm you'd think I'd know that......

hello all, much to my annoyance my operation at the northern general on monday has been cancelled, they have said i can have the op at claremont on friday, which i have agreed to, heres the question. Has anyone had an operation here, if so, were you happy with the care? kaz:)

Yes, I had something done about 10 years ago. It was very good, and at least you wont come out with MRSA. :thumbsup:

my son had his knee op canceled twice by the NGH he ended up having it done at the claremont. had his own room with tv and phone [cheaper to get people to phone u] the staff were brill. I know where i would prefer to go.
Hope all goes well with your op

Oh no whitewitch!
I guess I won't be paying you a visit.
But in all honesty you would be safer in the Claremont, I wish I was given that option, I'm gonna have people I kinda work with daily seeing me vulnerable & in paper knickers.
Good luck, let me know how you go!

hello all, much to my annoyance my operation at the northern general on monday has been cancelled, they have said i can have the op at claremont on friday, which i have agreed to, heres the question. Has anyone had an operation here, if so, were you happy with the care? kaz:)

Grab the opportunity with both hands! At least you are far less likely to get MRSA!!!

... It was very good, and at least you wont come out with MRSA. :thumbsup:

Sorry Pattricia! I've only just seen your comment about MRSA! Great minds think alike! :thumbsup:

easier for people visiting you as well no rushing about trying to find a carpark space or a space in the lift

easier for people visiting you as well no rushing about trying to find a carpark space or a space in the lift

Spot on:thumbsup:

I have had 2 operations at the Claremont both via the NHS. The NHS actually pay for the ops and you will probably find an NHS doc/staff doing the operation anyway.
The first time I had my own room with nurses checking on me every 15 minutes ( it was only a minor op so they must have been interested in the scar ;-) ).
The second time I was on a small ward with 3 other blokes. We had vegatable curry for dinner, the nurses must have thought we had formed a brass quartet with the sounds that echoed around the ward that night.

I can say that both times I was well looked after, the food was great and the staff really efficient.

The NHS actually pay for the ops and you will probably find an NHS doc/staff doing the operation anyway.

Yes, they are the same surgeons!

I think people have alot of misconceptions about private hospitals having a higher standard of care than NHS hospitals.

Sure the hotel facilities are better in alot of ways, ie you'll definitly get a private room, the food and drink will be better and you get a doilie with your tea and biscuits, but the actual care recieved is likely to be a far lower standard than you would expect in an NHS hospital, where both nursing and medical staff are likely to be educated and trained to a far higher standard (though the consultant/surgeon is likely to be the same as you would have at the NHS hospital the rest of the staff who are looking after you after he's gone home are as important in making sure yiu recover safely from your op).

The private hospitals are all about making money at the end of the day, and the operaters get away with giving staff as little training as they can get away with, since educating staff costs money. Staffing levels are bare minimum, and equipment is often ancient and delapidated.

I've done a few agency shifts in private hospitals, and have friends who've worked in them for a couple of years, and after what I've seen and heard I'd take the NHS over a private hospital any time.

I have had 2 operations at the Claremont both via the NHS. The NHS actually pay for the ops and you will probably find an NHS doc/staff doing the operation anyway.


Just to say, the surgeon is the same as you would have in the NHS, but other staff will be employed by the private hospital.

It was Thornberry !!!

I was born (and baptised) there (Thornbury Anex of the Children's Hospital) - they thought I wouldn't survive the night:(.

thanks everyone for all your replies, looks like ive done well out of the cancellation.

shihtzumad, hope you get your date for claremont soon

debs, just something to think about when you have your op, when i had my first op in 1994 they gave me paper knickers, with me watching too much tv (dr kildare i think) i thought they were something to cover your hair up with, so yes, youve got it, i stuck them on my head, definately cheered everyone up before they had their op :hihi: Good luck xx

go for it my b in law has just had his knee done and had his own room on suite like a five star hotel full english breakfast free parking and we could visit till 10pm also my friend has just had some cosmetic workdone and shes booked again straight away her room was so quite over the gardens she didnt want to come home said it was like being at atluxury weekend away so grab it

to reply to scoop if you go on their web site you will see that its anot for profit hospital and is a charitable organisation my friend also says they do a lot for local charities etc

My friend had her babies there - it was lovely

No maternity services at Claremont - God forbid ! 2 lives at risk !

Yes, I had something done about 10 years ago. It was very good, and at least you wont come out with MRSA. :thumbsup:

No - they will send you to NGH when you get MRSA in Thornbury or Claremont !

I think people have alot of misconceptions about private hospitals having a higher standard of care than NHS hospitals.

Sure the hotel facilities are better in alot of ways, ie you'll definitly get a private room, the food and drink will be better and you get a doilie with your tea and biscuits, but the actual care recieved is likely to be a far lower standard than you would expect in an NHS hospital, where both nursing and medical staff are likely to be educated and trained to a far higher standard (though the consultant/surgeon is likely to be the same as you would have at the NHS hospital the rest of the staff who are looking after you after he's gone home are as important in making sure yiu recover safely from your op).

The private hospitals are all about making money at the end of the day, and the operaters get away with giving staff as little training as they can get away with, since educating staff costs money. Staffing levels are bare minimum, and equipment is often ancient and delapidated.

I've done a few agency shifts in private hospitals, and have friends who've worked in them for a couple of years, and after what I've seen and heard I'd take the NHS over a private hospital any time.

Well said ! You may get the Consultant performing the operation in Thornbury but he/she is not always the one who is best placed to do 'routine' ops - I would rather have a Registrar doing an op on me who is performing the op every day of his working life than the 'boss' who may do one on the odd occasion !

Claremont has always been an excellent hospital. You'll get first class care and the rooms are extremely nice.

Grab the opportunity with both hands! At least you are far less likely to get MRSA!!!

This is not true. NHS hospitals publish their statistics, private hospitals do not. Your statement is unsupportable. Besides, the surgeon infecting you on the operating table in the NHS hospital is the same one who will operate on you at Claremont!

Hmm I wonder if I just made that up then :huh:
I thought it was there, but of course I could be wrong. I'll have to check with her tomorrow now or it will drive me mad !!!

No you didn't make it up. My friend had her children there.

... the surgeon infecting you on the operating table in the NHS hospital is the same one who will operate on you at Claremont!

First time I've heard it is the surgeons who give patients MRSA. :suspect:
I would be interested to know where you gleaned that information from - please enlighten us. :)

First time I've heard it is the surgeons who give patients MRSA. :suspect:
I would be interested to know where you gleaned that information from - please enlighten us. :)

During the operation, the surgeon can infect you with improperly sterilised instruments, loose head/facial hairs and poor practise etc. After the operation, the surgeon will come to have a look at your wound following the operation to check everything is okay. He/she won't have washed their hands, will be wearing a filthy tie, will have just touched the door handle, your notes, another patient's wound etc., so there's a second opportunity. I guess you're a surgeon, or related to one, and suffering from the denial that has resulted in so many deaths and poor outcomes. Hygiene is everybody's responsibility, including the patients, who may have brought the bugs in with them and blamed the hospital for it!

During the operation, the surgeon can infect you with improperly sterilised instruments, loose head/facial hairs and poor practise etc. After the operation, the surgeon will come to have a look at your wound following the operation to check everything is okay. He/she won't have washed their hands, will be wearing a filthy tie, will have just touched the door handle, your notes, another patient's wound etc., so there's a second opportunity. I guess you're a surgeon, or related to one, and suffering from the denial that has resulted in so many deaths and poor outcomes. Hygiene is everybody's responsibility, including the patients, who may have brought the bugs in with them and blamed the hospital for it!

My Mum died of MRSA in the Northern General and she hadn't had surgery, they reckoned she must've picked it up via the bedsores she developed in there. Aren't they meant to turn bedridden patients? My son is in there now with a broken leg, god help him. It's an awful place.

Googleberry
Thank you for the information. What you say about surgeons and poor pracatice has always been the same and can apply to any hospital. What has definitely changed is the general standard of cleanliness at every level but in particular on wards and in the public areas. There used to be very strict rules in the past about visitors and in relation to staff wearing uniforms outside the hospital, although you used to see nurses walking to the Nurses' Home on Wilkinson Street after a shift, but I think that is different than going on a bus or driving home in a car. I think that is more a matter of concern than practice in the theatres. There's all this fuss about people squeezing that stuff on their hands when they enter a ward but what about for instance a pen they may have taken in with them! I keep pointing this out to people. Also, I think all ties should be replaced with Dickie-bows like those in the Carry-On films (although that was only the consultants!). Seriously though, it makes sense. Might also be worth reverting to wards like they used to have and a matron doing her rounds with a pair of white gloves!!

I guess you're a surgeon, or related to one, and suffering from the denial that has resulted in so many deaths and poor outcomes.

Re the above - no I am not related to anyone.... and why should I be in denial about anything?

I am as worried about MRSA as anyone else. I work in the RHH in Sheffield and have been appalled on occasions at the standard of cleanliness, e.g. blood smears and dirty finger marks on swing doors both in the staff and public sections - and the staircases can be left unswept for days as going up and down them to the canteen I have seen the same rubbish on the stairs for days at a time! We all comment about it and I and a couple of colleagues carry one of those packets of handiwipes with us so that we can wipe our hands before starting to eat our lunch after touching the doors on the way to the canteen!

I have also visited NGH on 3 occasions in the last year to visit friends and found that it was the same. I worked in Claremont Hospital for a while as a temp 3/4 years ago and by comparison I found it exceptionally clean. Just going on experience that's all.

perhpas if the nhs only had to do a minimum number of operations per day, it could offer the same standard of care as the claremont.

apparently immediate after care is "better" - usually one nurse to one patient or two at most. then it goes down hill with little "after " care even if you pay privately.
unlike the nhs who are there from the start to the end.

perhpas if the nhs only had to do a minimum number of operations per day....


...... but then what would happen to 'our Tony's' quotas? :o

perhpas if the nhs only had to do a minimum number of operations per day, it could offer the same standard of care as the claremont.


That is almost excusing unhygienic conditions though. If more cleaners and nurses and fewer managers were employed, we could go a long way to resolving the MRSA issue.

My mum was in the NGH recently and I was appalled with the filth on the ward, and with the conditions the staff had to work in. By comparison, the RHH was a palace.

That is almost excusing unhygienic conditions though. If more cleaners and nurses and fewer managers were employed, we could go a long way to resolving the MRSA issue.

My mum was in the NGH recently and I was appalled with the filth on the ward, and with the conditions the staff had to work in. By comparison, the RHH was a palace.

You are entitled to your opinion, of course, but how on earth can reducing the number of managers in the NHS resolve the MRSA 'issue' ? Very recent statistics have clearly shown that many people being admitted to hospital are already infected by MRSA - my Mum being one of them who had never been near a hospital for over 7 years ! She has been treated for the infection and is now clear but was not aware that she had it and it didn't affect her health in any way ! The hysteria whipped up by the media about MRSA is disgusting and has caused may patients needless worry and anxiety. Whilst there are a few deaths associated with MRSA they are seldom caused solely by the germ themselves and are usually a contributing factor for people who are already very unwell.

May I also add that my Mum is being cared for in the NGH in a very clean, bright and caring environment and none of the family could have wished for better care. Oh, and by the way, - I am a qualified health care professional - so I know what I am talking about !

to reply to scoop if you go on their web site you will see that its anot for profit hospital and is a charitable organisation my friend also says they do a lot for local charities etc

I wasn't referring to Clairemonts specifically, but to private hospitals generally.

My anutie had her NHS hip replacement at the Clairemont. She thought they were fantastic.

That is almost excusing unhygienic conditions though. If more cleaners and nurses and fewer managers were employed, we could go a long way to resolving the MRSA issue.

My mum was in the NGH recently and I was appalled with the filth on the ward, and with the conditions the staff had to work in. By comparison, the RHH was a palace.


no, i made no comment on cleanliness.
i remarked about the "service" that is given usually by nurses for the first 24 hours - which then gradually declines(they even tell you that when you go for treatment)

however i do fully agree with your remarks re:cleaners in NHS hospitals.

You are entitled to your opinion, of course, but how on earth can reducing the number of managers in the NHS resolve the MRSA 'issue' ?


Reducing the number of managers (I'm sorry but the health service is rather top heavy with them) would free up money to pay the wages of more nurses, care assistants and cleaners, and hopefully give them time to put into practice the training they receive on infection control.

When my mum was in hospital I witnessed corners being cut which compromised my mum's (and other patients) already severely compromised immune system. I actually saw an incontinent man having his pad changed with his family members watching, and the curtain open, then the health worker carrying the soiled pad at arms length to a bin at the end of the ward. He then rinsed his hands under the tap.

Obviously I can only comment on what I saw, but that was enough for me to form a very poor opinion of the NGH.

Reducing the number of managers (I'm sorry but the health service is rather top heavy with them) would free up money to pay the wages of more nurses, care assistants and cleaners, and hopefully give them time to put into practice the training they receive on infection control.

When my mum was in hospital I witnessed corners being cut which compromised my mum's (and other patients) already severely compromised immune system. I actually saw an incontinent man having his pad changed with his family members watching, and the curtain open, then the health worker carrying the soiled pad at arms length to a bin at the end of the ward. He then rinsed his hands under the tap.

Obviously I can only comment on what I saw, but that was enough for me to form a very poor opinion of the NGH.

I totally agree that the NHS is top heavy with managers - but I very much doubt the money saved by getting rid of a lot of them will be spent on more trained nurses. The fact is that at this time, when trained nurses leave wards and departments they are being replaced by support workers - who do a fantastic job, but are not qualified nurses but cost the NHS a lot less to employ.
The incident witnessed by yourself was disgusting and I can understand your concerns. However, and I can only say as I see, my Mum has been treated with great respect and her dignity has always been kept intact - believe me, I would have been complaining very sharpish if that had not been the case ! Did you complain or pass comment to the nursing staff involved in this incident ? This sort of behaviour needs to be challenged ! If you did not complain - why not ?

Did you complain or pass comment to the nursing staff involved in this incident ? This sort of behaviour needs to be challenged ! If you did not complain - why not ?

Betty it's a very long story, but yes I did complain. I had to be very careful because my mum was adamant that I say nothing as she felt her care may be affected by a complaint being made. To an extent I had to respect her wishes, so I complained to the consultant dealing with her chemo at the RHH, and his colleague at the NGH paid her a visit.

I felt able to complain but there are many people out there that do not, elderly people in particular.

I'm glad that your mum got the correct care, it would be lovely if this were always the case, but believe me it isn't.

should think yourself lucky. Claremont is a very nice private hospital with single rooms, better food and top class care. Beats the NHS although they do try:thumbsup:

Until your money runs out.

If you are happy with doing it at such short notice then by all means take up the offer as it will be better than having to wait ages. If you turn it down you may find you have to wait ages for it on the NHS.

Best of luck.:thumbsup:

Well i didn't no they did maternity there, you learn something everyday. :)

No that was the conception. Those doctors can be pretty randy.:hihi:

should think yourself lucky. Claremont is a very nice private hospital with single rooms, better food and top class care. Beats the NHS although they do try:thumbsup:

Who's there to pick up the pieces when (sorry, if) it all goes wrong though?

Yes, I had something done about 10 years ago. It was very good, and at least you wont come out with MRSA. :thumbsup:

Says who? All those beautiful carpets that make the place look luxurious... It's easier to clean blood/wee/vomit from a lino type floor :)
For all you know she may be going in with it (no offence to the OP intended!!!!)

Well I went in the Hallamshire with a minor toenail infection last year and they removed my liver and amputated my left arm! That's why I'm going private next time.....

[QUOTE=dynamicdebz;2077306]Oh no whitewitch!
I guess I won't be paying you a visit.
But in all honesty you would be safer in the Claremont, I wish I was given that option, I'm gonna have people I kinda work with daily seeing me vulnerable & in paper knickers.
Good luck, let me know how you go![/QUO

Why would she be safer at Claremont?? The staff have all the same training...most of the surgeons and anaesthetists work mainly in the NHS...at NGH or RHH believe it or not! The facilities if something goes wrong are available on the NHS e.g. ITU, HDU,POSU,CICU etc etc...maybe the MRSA rate is higher in the NHS but I think I would rather have MRSA than have to be transfered to a different hospital for any critical care I may need. Besides 60% of us already carry MRSA!!!!!!

[QUOTE=dynamicdebz;2077306]Oh no whitewitch!
I guess I won't be paying you a visit.
But in all honesty you would be safer in the Claremont, I wish I was given that option, I'm gonna have people I kinda work with daily seeing me vulnerable & in paper knickers.
Good luck, let me know how you go![/QUO

Why would she be safer at Claremont?? The staff have all the same training...most of the surgeons and anaesthetists work mainly in the NHS...at NGH or RHH believe it or not! The facilities if something goes wrong are available on the NHS e.g. ITU, HDU,POSU,CICU etc etc...maybe the MRSA rate is higher in the NHS but I think I would rather have MRSA than have to be transfered to a different hospital for any critical care I may need. Besides 60% of us already carry MRSA!!!!!!

This is exactly what I have been trying to say all along ! There are more of the general population who are infected with MRSA than those who are not !
It has always been a concern of mine about the lack of acute beds and training in private hospitals . This is something that all those considering private health care should consider. It's all very well having pretty rooms, nice carpets and silver service, but if anything goes wrong it's a swift 999 call and the good old NHS bails the private sector out yet again !

[QUOTE=yan;2091474]

This is exactly what I have been trying to say all along ! There are more of the general population who are infected with MRSA than those who are not !
It has always been a concern of mine about the lack of acute beds and training in private hospitals . This is something that all those considering private health care should consider. It's all very well having pretty rooms, nice carpets and silver service, but if anything goes wrong it's a swift 999 call and the good old NHS bails the private sector out yet again !

Precisely!! That's why I'd go for Sheffield Teaching Hospitals - the clue's in the name...

[QUOTE=Betty1;2091817]

Precisely!! That's why I'd go for Sheffield Teaching Hospitals - the clue's in the name...


I can see the argument about what happens when things go wrong in a private hospital, and them having to be bailed out by the NHS, but it would be false to assume that this happens often. It's the same scaremongering type of view as the behind the scenes bins of bloodied limbs and staff being recruited from the local travelling circus troupe.

But why are you any better off at a 'Teaching Hospital'? Surely having the 'teacher' on his own in a less intrusive atmosphere would be preferable.

I've had treatment at the NHS and it was exemplary on both occasions, I don't think it could have been bettered. I decided against private treatment because at the time I was not impressed with the facilities offered privately, this was about 4 years ago.

However a friend recently went into Thornbury and they quite literally saved his life. The aftercare was marvellous, he saw the same nurses nearly all the time. I should add that they only got to Thornbury because I stuck my oar in big time and really pushed for a private consultation, there is no doubt in my mind that he would have died if we had left it to his original GP.

I went to the claremont for an umbilical hernia operation the room was great and so was the food. The one drawback was it was a few years ago when I smoked and I desperately wanted a cigarette but instead of meeting me halfway and helping me go down and have one I had to sneak down with my dad helping me get up and I gingerly hobbled down. I now see why but if you need a cigarette you need one.

My friend had her babies there - it was lovely


Claremont is not a matenity hospital and does not do Obstetrics.

As for having your op there, well, it depends what you're having done?

They have no ICU facilities like NGH and RHH so if things go pear shape then you end up being transferred back to NHS.

Remember that the operation you are having done is performed less often in a private hospital and often they borrow equipment from NHS so they can do the procedure so they are less specialisd than NHS.

You might get a better room and a nurse with a flower on her head and better food but all that is secondary to what is most important your safety and well-being at the time your operation.

If it's major life threatening surgery requiring ICU then always choose NHS.

If it's comfort, better food and better surroundings then private is better.

But, remember your life is more important!!!

Diezel

perhpas if the nhs only had to do a minimum number of operations per day, it could offer the same standard of care as the claremont.

apparently immediate after care is "better" - usually one nurse to one patient or two at most. then it goes down hill with little "after " care even if you pay privately.
unlike the nhs who are there from the start to the end.

I am a senior nurse, and I had an op in Claremont. Whilst the atmosphere was lovely, and the food was great, the nursing care was not as good as NHS. The nursing staff said the same problems existed, just wasn't published. There were 4 staff for 12/14 patients, but I saw them sitting in the office more than anything else. Also, their practice was not up to date, and somewhat old fashioned.
MRSA would be just as prevalent, it's handwashing that makes the difference. Somebody needs to enforce better handwashing with Doctors, they are the worst offenders.
They are a profit making organisation, and nursing staff say sometimes that can be deemed as most important.
Sheffield Teaching Hospitals Foundation Trust is a recognised charity, and in my view your money would be better donated there than any private hospital.
Private hospitals have the same fat cats at the top.

I was born (and baptised) there (Thornbury Anex of the Children's Hospital) - they thought I wouldn't survive the night:(.

Did you survive the night, then?

Yes, I had something done about 10 years ago. It was very good, and at least you wont come out with MRSA. :thumbsup:

Interesting idea but I doubt the MRSA bug can choose not to develop in a private hospital. Much MRSA is actually taken into hospitals not developed there.

But why are you any better off at a 'Teaching Hospital'? Surely having the 'teacher' on his own in a less intrusive atmosphere would be preferable.



Because they are massively involved in training the next generation of healthcare professionals; being questioned about your practice makes you keep more up to date, as does the competitiveness of such a large hospital. There are close links with the University which encourages reasearch.

:( Well said ! You may get the Consultant performing the operation in Thornbury but he/she is not always the one who is best placed to do 'routine' ops - I would rather have a Registrar doing an op on me who is performing the op every day of his working life than the 'boss' who may do one on the odd occasion !

I totally disagree, I have had two ops and my kids have had to ops in there. One of my ops was a major op and I had the top consultant in Sheffield perform the operation. He was professional, friendly and approachable. The staff at the Claremont are second to none and I disagree that the general standard of care is better in the NHS it is far superior at Claremont as the ratio of staff to patients is far greater and hence you care checked on more regularly.

I am not against the NHS, I actually work for them, and what saddens me is that people are being sent to private hospitals instead of more money being spent so that the hospitals can give the care and service they should be giving.


However, if you are going into Claremont make the most of it, I almost felt like I was on holiday.

well, finally had the operation done and it was a success. the hospital was clean, and the staff friendly. due to my nervousness on the day the consultant took me down 2 hours earlier, so i was admitted at 12 noon and was in theatre by 1.30pm. i also came out clear of mrsa:)

Hello, Just to dispell a few myths. We work at Claremont, so take this how you want to.

The Nuns don't work here any more - they left in 1995.
We don't do maternity any more but used to many years ago.
We are a very friendly team and patients get looked after very well in a quiet and friendly environment. However, you can't please all of the people all of the time. Many many patients enjoy the experience here, a few are not quite as impressed - you get that anywhere.
We have NEVER EVER had a hospital acquired case of MRSA. We DO take patients with diagnosed MRSA and SCREEN ALL admissions for it before they come in.
The consultants that work here ALL work in the local NHS Trusts - Barnsley, Rotherham and Sheffield etc. They all work as NHS consultants and are highly trained and expect that we remain up to date in our practice. We have nurses working here doing Degrees and some already with Degrees and Masters Degrees. We nearly all trained - guess where - in the NHS (scoop).
We are subject to THE SAME inspections that NHS Trusts are subject to and, in fact, we CHOOSE to have a separate independent audit via the Hospital Accreditation Programme (HAP). Last year we were given a three year award (the highest in the region).
We ARE a Not-For-Profit organisation - unlike the South African owners of Thornbury. Any profit we make is reinvested in the hospital. We do have free parking!
We are like any good hospital. We continually try to improve on our current performance and have a robust and effective complaints system which means we actually listen to our patients.
We DO NOT have an ITU facility but we do have POSU and HDU beds. Our level of critical care facilities reflects the type of operations we do. Yes, we have transferred patients to ITU before - but that happens in the NHS too. However, the transfers are always done safely. Anyway, if the operation or your condition necessitates ITU care, you would not be given the option of having surgery at Claremont.
Finally, don't forget, we have a website (claremont-hospital.com). Remember as well that in Tony's brave new world, anyone needing an operation can tell their GP where they want it doing and if you like you can have it done here and the good old NHS will pay for it.

claremont is a lovely hospital very clean free parking nice restaurant go up and have alook round and a coffee and now with patient choice anyone can go there if you get a referal from your doctor ring up and ask for the patient choice office

hi all ,
talking of claremont my mams aunt (annie taylor) born c.1897 died about 1987 in claremont
in those days it was run by nuns,very orderly i remember going with my mam
well my mam was sole inheriter of annies will and she died in 1984
what would happen to it anybody know ?or where would i find out
any clever clogs out there
the nuns do not know where the records went might be destroyed
linda2

i was in claremount earlier this month and it was really nice staff were great food was fab if you feel upto eating { i didnt ) own private room with en suite et id def go for it

Having recently undergone surgery at the Claremont Hospital located in quiet and relatively secluded district of Fulwood, Sheffield, I thought it worthwhile to join the forum to inform others that I have nothing but positive comments to make about the staff, clinicians and my approachable neurosurgeon who performed the operation at the Claremont.

Irrespective of the recent installation of the coalition partnership at Westminster, so far as I'm aware the Claremont continues to cost effectively treat NHS patients as well as of course private patients.

Although the double microdiscectomy procedure I underwent only required me to be hospitalised for just two days (Saturday morning operation and discharged Sunday) the experience was as smooth and stress free as I could have possibly wished.

Therefore from my experience of this excellent hospital facility, the MRSA clear Claremont comes highly recommended.

Having recently undergone surgery at the Claremont Hospital located in quiet and relatively secluded district of Fulwood, Sheffield, I thought it worthwhile to join the forum to inform others that I have nothing but positive comments to make about the staff, clinicians and my approachable neurosurgeon who performed the operation at the Claremont.

Irrespective of the recent installation of the coalition partnership at Westminster, so far as I'm aware the Claremont continues to treat NHS patients as well as of course private patients.

Although the double microdiscectomy procedure I underwent only required me to be hospitalised for just two days (Saturday morning operation and discharged Sunday) the experience was as smooth and stress free as I could have possibly wished.

Therefore from my experience of this excellent hospital facility, the MRSA clear Claremont comes highly recommended.
Thats good as I was thinking of having a breast reduction there.

Claremont is better than a hotel.

It's like hospital treatment in the future or in Scandinavia.

You'll never want to set foot in an NHS premises after you have been there.

Claremont is better than a hotel.

It's like hospital treatment in the future or in Scandinavia.

You'll never want to set foot in an NHS premises after you have been there.

Well, the food and view might be lovely, but if something went wrong I'd rather be in the same building as the critical care facilities that a large NHS hospital can provide. I know that obviously the small independents transfer to NHS facilities when such an incident arises, but personally I'd prefer that they were on tap as opposed to relying on the ambulance service to get me to them.

My husband had an op @ claremont last year. Great staff and care before during and after. If had the choice would definatly go there.

My husband had an op @ claremont last year. Great staff and care before during and after. If had the choice would definatly go there.

So the transfer times to critical care facilities don't bother you? How odd

My daughter had an op in Claremont last year (on the NHS). Excellent treatment - great hospital.

Well, the food and view might be lovely, but if something went wrong I'd rather be in the same building as the critical care facilities that a large NHS hospital can provide. I know that obviously the small independents transfer to NHS facilities when such an incident arises, but personally I'd prefer that they were on tap as opposed to relying on the ambulance service to get me to them.

Well said. I work at the Hallamshire and often tell patients that while the surroundings may be a bit shabby the medical care is excellent. We have some of the best surgeons in the country and I'd always choose to have surgery at the Hallamshire over the Claremont.

why do people seem to think that mrsa is always caught in hospitals, most people would be shocked to know that you most people come into hospital with it and it is their personal hygine that pass it on to other patients.

on the plus side claremont is a lovely hospital and you get as much care there as you would do at any nhs hospital, only difference is as they are private they have more staff to patient ratio, it comes down to the staff that look after you. i know many people who love and appreciacte the care they have had from the nhs.

I am a senior nurse, and I had an op in Claremont. Whilst the atmosphere was lovely, and the food was great, the nursing care was not as good as NHS. The nursing staff said the same problems existed, just wasn't published. There were 4 staff for 12/14 patients, but I saw them sitting in the office more than anything else. Also, their practice was not up to date, and somewhat old fashioned.
MRSA would be just as prevalent, it's handwashing that makes the difference. Somebody needs to enforce better handwashing with Doctors, they are the worst offenders.
They are a profit making organisation, and nursing staff say sometimes that can be deemed as most important.
Sheffield Teaching Hospitals Foundation Trust is a recognised charity, and in my view your money would be better donated there than any private hospital.
Private hospitals have the same fat cats at the top.I had a hernia operation at Claremont and I wish I had not.I was given the choice of Thornberry or Claremont whilst paying private.I would not ever choose Claremont again,I thought it third rate private treatment.Probably OK for NHS treatment but if you pay for private treatment you expect better,and I do suspect you once got better treatment.My wife is full of praise for an operational stay she one had when it was run differently.But now they have taken on NHS work the standards are not the same.I had to walk 50yds down a corridor in absolute agony at 3 in the morning for a pee,something I remember in the old Infirmary on Langsett Rd!

had shoulder op a few years ago great service well looked after

same happened to my wife she went in thornbury it was like a hotel

Thornbury ? is'nt that the animal sanctury at Dinnington ?.
(Only jesting !), I hope you your wife recovered well after her op, a woman who worked with the wife a few years ago had a nasty experience there (not the animal sanctury) and got a nice payout from them. But going back to the Claremont, fantastic place can't fault it.

So the transfer times to critical care facilities don't bother you? How odd

nor the waiting time for an ambulance to transfer you ...

Well, the food and view might be lovely, but if something went wrong I'd rather be in the same building as the critical care facilities that a large NHS hospital can provide. I know that obviously the small independents transfer to NHS facilities when such an incident arises, but personally I'd prefer that they were on tap as opposed to relying on the ambulance service to get me to them.

A very recent incident where a patient became extremely unwell whilst under an anaesthetic at Thorndury and had to wait for an ambulance to transfer them to the NGH for tratment not available at the private hospital highlights this.
The private ambulance provided was ill equipped for such an acutely ill patient.
Very scary scenario but one which anyone considering having treatment in the private sector should be made aware of.

I had both hips replaced in Claremont back in April 2003 (in one operation) and I cannot speak highly enough of the staff and in particular of Mr. Tomouk, the surgeon who performed the operation and Julie Flowers, the physiotherapist who had me walking up and down stairs after about 3 days. I was in there for 12 days and the care and the meals provided were excellent. I have never had a problem since, not even the slightest twinge and would recommend the "double" operation to anybody.

My hospital is the Claremont and I had an operation there last year, Nice private rooms with toilets attached. Would recommend it.

I had my gall bladder removed in Claremont 2 years ago as they were trying to get down waiting lists. It was the best thing that could have happened. I got my own room, what food I could manage was great and the care was excellent. I'd choose Claremont over the Hallamshire or Northern General any day. Hope all goes well, but trust me, you've got lucky with the change of hospital.

A very recent incident where a patient became extremely unwell whilst under an anaesthetic at Thorndury and had to wait for an ambulance to transfer them to the NGH for tratment not available at the private hospital highlights this.
The private ambulance provided was ill equipped for such an acutely ill patient.
Very scary scenario but one which anyone considering having treatment in the private sector should be made aware of.

The apparent lack of concern of the above from those full of praise for private medicine astounds me.

A very recent incident where a patient became extremely unwell whilst under an anaesthetic at Thorndury and had to wait for an ambulance to transfer them to the NGH for tratment not available at the private hospital highlights this.
The private ambulance provided was ill equipped for such an acutely ill patient.
Very scary scenario but one which anyone considering having treatment in the private sector should be made aware of.
Does the above not concern anyone?

I'm suprised they used a private ambulance provider - I'd have assumed they would use YAS. That makes it even worse really doesn't it. All these people on here talking about how great en-suite is without thinking about the more important stuff like critical care facilities and transfer arrangements.

I've had treatment requiring overnight stays in the Claremont and also in RDGH, I didn't know much about hospitals when I chose to be treated in the Claremont, and I agree the hospitality is great, but I wouldn't ever do it again. I'd prefer to have critical care facilities on site rather than sky tv

I'm suprised they used a private ambulance provider - I'd have assumed they would use YAS. That makes it even worse really doesn't it. All these people on here talking about how great en-suite is without thinking about the more important stuff like critical care facilities and transfer arrangements.

I've had treatment requiring overnight stays in the Claremont and also in RDGH, I didn't know much about hospitals when I chose to be treated in the Claremont, and I agree the hospitality is great, but I wouldn't ever do it again. I'd prefer to have critical care facilities on site rather than sky tv

Precisely!
Silver teapots and frilly hats don't cut the mustard do they?
All nurses know that any patient being nursed in a room away from the main area cannot be observed as closely as those in a more populated area.
Thornbury have an intercom system - if you press your nurse call button someone talks to you through a loudspeaker - very reassuring.....not.

Having recently undergone surgery at the Claremont Hospital located in quiet and relatively secluded district of Fulwood, Sheffield, I thought it worthwhile to join the forum to inform others that I have nothing but positive comments to make about the staff, clinicians and my approachable neurosurgeon who performed the operation at the Claremont.

Irrespective of the recent installation of the coalition partnership at Westminster, so far as I'm aware the Claremont continues to cost effectively treat NHS patients as well as of course private patients.

Although the double microdiscectomy procedure I underwent only required me to be hospitalised for just two days (Saturday morning operation and discharged Sunday) the experience was as smooth and stress free as I could have possibly wished.

Therefore from my experience of this excellent hospital facility, the MRSA clear Claremont comes highly recommended.

Welcome to the forum, RightysLumba. What department do you work in there? ;)

Having recently undergone surgery at the Claremont Hospital located in quiet and relatively secluded district of Fulwood, Sheffield, I thought it worthwhile to join the forum to inform others that I have nothing but positive comments to make about the staff, clinicians and my approachable neurosurgeon who performed the operation at the Claremont.

Irrespective of the recent installation of the coalition partnership at Westminster, so far as I'm aware the Claremont continues to cost effectively treat NHS patients as well as of course private patients.

Although the double microdiscectomy procedure I underwent only required me to be hospitalised for just two days (Saturday morning operation and discharged Sunday) the experience was as smooth and stress free as I could have possibly wished.

Therefore from my experience of this excellent hospital facility, the MRSA clear Claremont comes highly recommended.
As you well know, the only reason that Claremont is 'MRSA free' is because when a patient is infected with MRSA in this establishment they are very quickly shipped out to the NGH - the NHS has to bail out the private sector time and time again - it's a scandal.
A close friend of mine caught MRSA in a private hospital in Sheffielf after an operation - he still comments on the speed that he was whisked away from that establishment!
Private hospitals DO infect their fee-paying patients with germs but are not willing to deal with their cock-ups for fear of tainting any reputation they may have.

As you well know, the only reason that Claremont is 'MRSA free' is because when a patient is infected with MRSA in this establishment they are very quickly shipped out to the NGH - the NHS has to bail out the private sector time and time again - it's a scandal.
A close friend of mine caught MRSA in a private hospital in Sheffielf after an operation - he still comments on the speed that he was whisked away from that establishment!
Private hospitals DO infect their fee-paying patients with germs but are not willing to deal with their cock-ups for fear of tainting any reputation they may have.

When I was admitted to the Northern General the other week, I was routinely swabbed on admission to the ward for MRSA.

I was happy to have it done so, as a protective measure both for myself and for the protection of the other patients on the ward.

When I was admitted to the Northern General the other week, I was routinely swabbed on admission to the ward for MRSA.

I was happy to have it done so, as a protective measure both for myself and for the protection of the other patients on the ward.

ALL patients admitted, either routinely or as an emergency into the NGH are swabbed for MRSA.
Anyone found to be positive is immediately started on treatment.
Sadly, this is not the case at all local private hospitals who are way behind NHS hospitals in infection control.

Claremont is a thousand times better than the Northen General.

A very recent incident where a patient became extremely unwell whilst under an anaesthetic at Thorndury and had to wait for an ambulance to transfer them to the NGH for tratment not available at the private hospital highlights this.
The private ambulance provided was ill equipped for such an acutely ill patient.
Very scary scenario but one which anyone considering having treatment in the private sector should be made aware of.

About 8 yrs ago when I needed routine surgery and the NHS were trying to cut the waiting lists I was offered the opportunity to have this surgery at Claremont on the NHS.
However when they reviewed my notes and saw that 7 yrs previouly i had suffered a spontaneous pneumothorax ( collapsed lung), they said that I was "Unsuitable " for surgery at Claremont due to the slightly increased risk that it may happen again - ie whilst I was in Claremont.

I could not understand this, but on talking to an anaesthatist that I know they said it was because if my lung were to collapse in the night there would be no one on site capable of putting in a chest drain and I would need transferring to A& E NGH.

The care I had at RHH was excellent.

This was 8 yrs ago, I can't comment on current staff availability at Claremont overnight.

A very recent incident where a patient became extremely unwell whilst under an anaesthetic at Thorndury and had to wait for an ambulance to transfer them to the NGH for tratment not available at the private hospital highlights this.
The private ambulance provided was ill equipped for such an acutely ill patient.
Very scary scenario but one which anyone considering having treatment in the private sector should be made aware of.

That's if they do have an ITU bed at the Northern, you may find yourself shipped to Nottingham or Leeds, and know nothing about it until you regain consciousness.

That's if they do have an ITU bed at the Northern, you may find yourself shipped to Nottingham or Leeds, and know nothing about it until you regain consciousness.

In which case......... what is the problem?
The point that I wish to make is that SO many people who accept private health care are not aware of the risk they take should anything go wrong.

In which case......... what is the problem?
The point that I wish to make is that SO many people who accept private health care are not aware of the risk they take should anything go wrong.

I guess that point I am trying to make is, if you have an operation at the NGH or the RHH and there are complications, they are far more likely to find you a critical care bed within that hospital, even if that means you spend the night ventilated in the recovery room, than you are if you need to be transferred there from another hospital.

I guess that point I am trying to make is, if you have an operation at the NGH or the RHH and there are complications, they are far more likely to find you a critical care bed within that hospital, even if that means you spend the night ventilated in the recovery room, than you are if you need to be transferred there from another hospital.

Indeed.
So if you are a private patient who needs an ITU bed in an NHS hospital because the private hospital you are paying can't cope with the acuteness of your condition -you are at a distinct disadvantage.

Two years ago I was due to have an op at the Claremont....only to be let down because I have a BMI over 35.

Had they checked my notes they might have just noticed that the surgeon who would have been carrying out the surgery was a leading bariatric surgeon....dealing with people who are overweight.

Clues were there Claremont......it isn't rocket science.

The op was carried out in the Hallamshire by the same surgeon.

And I KNEW that if something had gone wrong then the technology and specialist needed would have been ready on hand.

So much safer than in the posh overspill national health annexe don't you think :)

I had a hernia operation at Claremont and I wish I had not.I was given the choice of Thornberry or Claremont whilst paying private.I would not ever choose Claremont again,I thought it third rate private treatment.Probably OK for NHS treatment but if you pay for private treatment you expect better,and I do suspect you once got better treatment.My wife is full of praise for an operational stay she one had when it was run differently.But now they have taken on NHS work the standards are not the same.I had to walk 50yds down a corridor in absolute agony at 3 in the morning for a pee,something I remember in the old Infirmary on Langsett Rd!

I had my hernia done at Claremont, the treatment and level of care were fantastic and really couldn't have been better. I opted for Claremont over Thornbury at the time as I felt that Thornbury's standards were getting overtaken by the push to get people (often referred from the NHS) through and out again. Having said that recent visits to Thornbury with an elderly friend who has been through some serious procedures there has restored my faith in them somewhat.

On the MRSA front Claremont are rightly proud of their record in this field and take great precautions to keep infections at bay.

The NHS is a wonderful service but totally bogged down by teams of people in back offices filling in needless paperwork contributing nothing to the general war effort. You could cut staffing (excluding front line/hands on staff) by about 20% and I doubt that any real difference would be noticed IMO.

Everyone is talking about the Claremont's pretty private rooms, tv, countryside views etc versus the 'better' professional care in the NHS. Over the last couple of years my mum, dad, husband and son have needed the inpatient care of the NGH and RHH. To be quite honest the NGH literally stinks, the RHH is marginally better. You can blame the lack of resources for the NHS looking tatty but there is absolutely no excuse for filth. You walk into the wards in the NGH and they smell like old mens urinals. :gag: especially the MAU wards. I remember when people used to say they didn't like the smell of disinfectant because it reminded them of being in hospital - I don't think NHS hospitals know what disinfectant is nowadays, and I have NEVER seen a doctor/consultant use the green handwash voluntarily. If I have been visiting when they have come to examine my relative I have had to ask them to use the handwash!
Also, men and women are in the same wards - there is no dignity for the patients at all. Finally, both my husband and son have also been treated in Claremont and Thornbury - just the cleanliness gives you more confidence. As a previous comment states, if an operation is likely to need ITU then it wouldn't be offered at Claremont in the first place. For any invasive surgery I would opt for the private sector every time.

Check if they have intensive care facilities

Everyone is talking about the Claremont's pretty private rooms, tv, countryside views etc versus the 'better' professional care in the NHS. Over the last couple of years my mum, dad, husband and son have needed the inpatient care of the NGH and RHH. To be quite honest the NGH literally stinks, the RHH is marginally better. You can blame the lack of resources for the NHS looking tatty but there is absolutely no excuse for filth. You walk into the wards in the NGH and they smell like old mens urinals. :gag: especially the MAU wards. I remember when people used to say they didn't like the smell of disinfectant because it reminded them of being in hospital - I don't think NHS hospitals know what disinfectant is nowadays, and I have NEVER seen a doctor/consultant use the green handwash voluntarily. If I have been visiting when they have come to examine my relative I have had to ask them to use the handwash!
Also, men and women are in the same wards - there is no dignity for the patients at all. Finally, both my husband and son have also been treated in Claremont and Thornbury - just the cleanliness gives you more confidence. As a previous comment states, if an operation is likely to need ITU then it wouldn't be offered at Claremont in the first place. For any invasive surgery I would opt for the private sector every time.

I was on firth 7 at the Nor Gen, a few weeks ago, after being admitted as an emergency, and discovering I needed to have a pacemaker fitted. I had surgery, the care was fabulous.

I didn't have an issue with the cleanliness of the ward, or the care I received. It was fantastic. My one gripe was that the food was diabolical.

Everyone is talking about the Claremont's pretty private rooms, tv, countryside views etc versus the 'better' professional care in the NHS. Over the last couple of years my mum, dad, husband and son have needed the inpatient care of the NGH and RHH. To be quite honest the NGH literally stinks, the RHH is marginally better. You can blame the lack of resources for the NHS looking tatty but there is absolutely no excuse for filth. You walk into the wards in the NGH and they smell like old mens urinals. :gag: especially the MAU wards. I remember when people used to say they didn't like the smell of disinfectant because it reminded them of being in hospital - I don't think NHS hospitals know what disinfectant is nowadays, and I have NEVER seen a doctor/consultant use the green handwash voluntarily. If I have been visiting when they have come to examine my relative I have had to ask them to use the handwash!
Also, men and women are in the same wards - there is no dignity for the patients at all. Finally, both my husband and son have also been treated in Claremont and Thornbury - just the cleanliness gives you more confidence. As a previous comment states, if an operation is likely to need ITU then it wouldn't be offered at Claremont in the first place. For any invasive surgery I would opt for the private sector every time.

Thornbury Hospitals standards of cleanliness are FAR below what you think and this information I have been given by someone who works in all health care establishments in the City. This person visited the ward where I work at the NGH and made it his business to tell me how impressed he was at the standards of cleanliness on my ward. He had very recently been to Thornbury to service some equipment and was appalled at the dust and grime there. He told me that the said equipment looked as though it hadn't been cleaned for the 10 years since it was installed.
Thornbury Hospital states that it is MRSA free - how would they know since patients being admitted there are rarely swabbed for this germ? A colleague who recently had surgery there had to ASK to be swabbed since she is a health care worker and is at high risk of carrying the germ. Anyone who contracts MRSA in Thornbury (and it DOES happen) is very swiftly transferred to the NGH for treatment - Thornbury will not declare this lapse for obvious reasons.
Hard working wards who receive patients with all manner of health problems often don't smell very sweet. This is because when people are ill, their bodies don't work properly and often omit offensive smells. This can't be avoided and is nobody's fault least of all the poor sick person. Have a little consideration - you may be ill one day.

I was on firth 7 at the Nor Gen, a few weeks ago, after being admitted as an emergency, and discovering I needed to have a pacemaker fitted. I had surgery, the care was fabulous.

I didn't have an issue with the cleanliness of the ward, or the care I received. It was fantastic. My one gripe was that the food was diabolical.

It is isn't it ? I am often embarrassed to serve it!
Personally, I think it's a ploy to hasten patients recovery so they get home for decent food !
Hope that you continue to make a good recovery.:)

It is isn't it ? I am often embarrassed to serve it!
Personally, I think it's a ploy to hasten patients recovery so they get home for decent food !
Hope that you continue to make a good recovery.:)

Yes, thanks Daven, I'm much improved. I'm getting my "pep" back, and am really noticing a difference.

The highlight of my week in there was when I was served Chick Pea Dal Curry for five main-meals running.

The catering department kept sending meat halal meals for me, when I'm a vegetarian who doesn't eat egg. (intolerant to egg) So I had to wait for them to send up a veggie meal. (despite having specifically requested they send me a non-egged, vegie meal)

Problem was, it'd take up to an hour, so I was being served my lunch at 1.15/ 1.30, which meant that my supposed rest hour from 1-2pm was stymied. The nurse was chuckling at my face as she served the curry for the fourth time. I said "My god, I'm going to look like a chickpea if I have another one of these!"

She was positively howling with laughter when she realised that meal number five later that day was also a stinking rotten chick pea curry. :help::roll:

Yes, thanks Daven, I'm much improved. I'm getting my "pep" back, and am really noticing a difference.

The highlight of my week in there was when I was served Chick Pea Dal Curry for five main-meals running.

The catering department kept sending meat halal meals for me, when I'm a vegetarian who doesn't eat egg. (intolerant to egg) So I had to wait for them to send up a veggie meal. (despite having specifically requested they send me a non-egged, vegie meal)

Problem was, it'd take up to an hour, so I was being served my lunch at 1.15/ 1.30, which meant that my supposed rest hour from 1-2pm was stymied. The nurse was chuckling at my face as she served the curry for the fourth time. I said "My god, I'm going to look like a chickpea if I have another one of these!"

She was positively howling with laughter when she realised that meal number five later that day was also a stinking rotten chick pea curry. :help::roll:

The catering department needs a big shake up. Pleasantly served and interesting food is SO important for ill patients - it's often a high point of the day !
Anyway........... we digress !:)

The catering department needs a big shake up. Pleasantly served and interesting food is SO important for ill patients - it's often a high point of the day !
Anyway........... we digress !:)

I'm fervently hoping that I shan't need another stay, and to have to endure the NGH's food *gulp*(well, not till the pacemaker batteries need replacing, at least!)

I'm fervently hoping that I shan't need another stay, and to have to endure the NGH's food *gulp*(well, not till the pacemaker batteries need replacing, at least!)

Box changes usually done as a day case so you should be ok ! x

As a previous comment states, if an operation is likely to need ITU then it wouldn't be offered at Claremont in the first place. For any invasive surgery I would opt for the private sector every time.

If it was the case that the Claremont wouldn't carry out a procedure that might require critical care facilities, then they wouldn't do much at all! The truth is, a vast number of the procedures carried out at the Claremont can result in the patient requiring critical care facilities, for which they then need to transfer the patient to an NHS hospital. I'd prefer to have that facility on site in any hospital that I'm treated in.

Box changes usually done as a day case so you should be ok ! x

That's a relief to know, Daven. I presumed that it'd be at least a one, possibly two night stay, for the battery/ box change, to ensure everything was ticking over as it should be.

saying that, it used to be a week-to-a-fortnight in hospital for an appendectomy, now it's three or four days, going on my friend's recent brush with appendicitis (he was in hospital at the same time as I was.)

I'm in at Claremont tomorrow. I'll let you know how it goes.

Jim

I'm in at Claremont tomorrow. I'll let you know how it goes.

Jim

All the best, Jim. Hope it's a short stay! :D

I would take claremont any time, more like a hotel than a hospital, wife had op there recently, fab service.

I would take claremont any time, more like a hotel than a hospital, wife had op there recently, fab service.

a hotel.....yes.....but a hotel with no intensive care treatment.

I am glad your wife was ok...but had been things different I wonder if you would have posted the same???

I likened it before to a NHS overspill annexe. :hihi:

Op went fine, greatt after care, but left on my own for long periods this afternoon with no one checking in.

Nice cheese sandwich though!


Jim

Op went fine, greatt after care, but left on my own for long periods this afternoon with no one checking in.

Nice cheese sandwich though!


Jim

glad to hear you are ok. :thumbsup:

hello all, much to my annoyance my operation at the northern general on monday has been cancelled, they have said i can have the op at claremont on friday, which i have agreed to, heres the question. Has anyone had an operation here, if so, were you happy with the care? kaz:)

I had major surgery there last year. It's a bit like a Travel Lodge hotel. Nice private room and good food etc. Although after my operation I was returned to my room and left alone and they didn't leave the buzzer within reach. In the middle of the night I was overheating so badly I thought something might be wrong and couldn't call for help. I eventually managed to reach my mobile, phone my hubby (in the middle of the night) and get him to phone reception and tell them what room I was in!!!

They were really sorry and everything was fine, but I think a lot of the staff are healthcare assistants rather than qualified nurses. I tried to see the whole thing in a positive light, I mean, most of the people in there are paying thousands for it, and you get to go private for free :)

Good luck, I hope it goes well. OH, I JUST REALISED HOW OLD THIS THREAD IS!!! Hope it went well then, lol!

Several years ago when I found out I needed a quadruple by-pass I was told there was a waiting list at the NGH. Made enqiries about going private and to my surprise I was told that the surgeon from NGH could do the op within a couple of weeks if I went to either Claremont or Thornbury at a cost of £12,500, as stated this was about 15 years ago. I was then told I would have to have the operation in the Northern because I would need intensive care after, then I would be transferred up to the private hospital....this is so wrong IMO. It should be a case of either or for the surgeon, NHS or private work not both. There's no wonder you only get to see your consultant once, at the beginning when you go to the NGH or RHH, they are all busy with their private practice work...should never be allowed.

Several years ago when I found out I needed a quadruple by-pass I was told there was a waiting list at the NGH. Made enqiries about going private and to my surprise I was told that the surgeon from NGH could do the op within a couple of weeks if I went to either Claremont or Thornbury at a cost of £12,500, as stated this was about 15 years ago. I was then told I would have to have the operation in the Northern because I would need intensive care after, then I would be transferred up to the private hospital....this is so wrong IMO. It should be a case of either or for the surgeon, NHS or private work not both. There's no wonder you only get to see your consultant once, at the beginning when you go to the NGH or RHH, they are all busy with their private practice work...should never be allowed.


You do know that the consultant is contracted to do a set number of hours a week in the NHS, all the private work is done in their own time.

You do know that the consultant is contracted to do a set number of hours a week in the NHS, all the private work is done in their own time.

Yes I do know all about consultants being contracted to work a number of hours within the NHS. My gripe is that they are able to work in both. Yours or my working week would not allow us to be able to do another job at the same time (35/40 hours per week) so it would be safe to say that this would work with consultants also, unless they are contracted to do 15/20 hours per week for the NHS and then do private work 15/20. For this they are paid silly money for NHS work and even sillier money for their private work.

The only exception I came across was a Professor Rogers at the NGH, I heard a lady begging him to see her privately, for quicker treatment, his answer to her was "I'm sorry I don't do private work"

Speaking from personal experience when laid up in hospital, the consultant makes very few ward rounds, it's usually his registrars or even junior doctors who do the work with top doc only doing a couple of ward rounds a week. I have to say that, as a whole the NHS does a great job, and I have for the last twenty odd years received excellent care from both NGH and Weston Park.