Last week, I had occasion to accompany an elderly relative to a scheduled appointment at Waterford University Hospital.
The hospital was bursting at its seams with throngs of people everywhere and when we got to the waiting room it was so crowded that I decided to remain outside in the corridor rather than occupy a seat that might be needed by a patient.
I found a little niche where I wasn’t in anybody’s way and waited as consultants, doctors, nurses, secretaries, receptionists and porters rushed up and down the corridor.
Often laden down with files and casework, they were extremely busy and under pressure. There was no doubt about that but what was so uplifting to witness was their good humour, their willingness to help and their kindness to members of the public.
Hospitals are intimidating places and along the corridor came couples and individuals clearly lost or uncertain of where they should be. Some appeared anxious and even a little frightened. Without being stopped or approached, the staff members from all disciplines spotted the stragglers and greeted them all with a friendly “Are you all right there, can I help you?”
You could see the relief falling off the shoulders of the people in question as they were gently and cheerfully put on the right track.
There are many things not right about our health service at present as the debate over finance, resources and facilities rages on. However, money can’t buy good manners and decency but I saw plenty of evidence of that in a caring staff last week.
There's no shortage of caring staff at UHW.