Hospital Experiences and Changes Amidst Pandemic

The healthcare landscape has faced numerous challenges, particularly during the ongoing pandemic. My recent hospital stays in Scotland have provided a unique perspective on the changes and continuities in hospital care, focusing on food, nursing attitudes, and the impact of the coronavirus. This article aims to offer insights into the evolving nature of hospital experiences through a personal account.

Continuity and Change in Hospital Care

Despite the increased scrutiny and burden, my experiences in hospitals have shown both improvements and ongoing issues. Historically, local hospitals have regularly dealt with anti-vaccination advocates who require extensive care, often overshadowing the needs of other patients. Over the last few years, our outpatient services have been relatively smoother, thanks to less pressure from antivaxxers. However, the overall supportive environment has changed significantly over the years.

Improvements in Hospital Food

One of the most noticeable changes has been the quality and variety of food offered. Gone are the days of a simple curly cheese sandwich; now, patients are presented with a diverse menu featuring multiple well-prepared courses. For instance, ready meals from Wiltshire Farm Foods are available for those who have been discharged, as I received a brochure during my most recent hospital visit to Raigmore hospital in Inverness. The food improvement is evident, with options for custom portion sizes and a variety of dietary preferences, including not just the usual nut, fish, or egg allergies but a long list of others.

Historically, hospital food choices were rather limited. At my previous hospital stays in England, the only option for dessert was chocolate sponge with chocolate custard, often rustically prepared, and a second helping could be requested if available. In contrast, my recent stays in Scottish hospitals offer ice cream, porridge, and a wide range of options. During Christmas, a proper roast turkey dinner was served, though the roast potatoes weren't as good as the rest of the meal. The tea trolley remains a highlight, providing tea exactly as preferred and often remembering earlier requests.

Nursing Attitude and WHO CARES

The change in nursing attitudes is palpable and perhaps the most significant shift. Back in my English days, nurses were always accommodating and patient, especially in the middle of the night. Today, nursing staff have a more pressing workload, balancing the need to care for a larger number of patients amidst the pandemic. Nurses now often walk away without interacting, missing the support that made previous hospital experiences more bearable.

During my final hospital stay, my mental health was adversely affected by nurses who ignored my requests and walked away. The mental health doctor, who ultimately sided with the nursing staff, offered no assistance, contributing to a significant emotional breakdown. This stark contrast has left me questioning the balance between frontline healthcare pressure and patient care needs.

The pandemic has arguably heightened these issues. Nurses are overworked and underappreciated, facing extreme stress and fatigue. The lack of communication and empathy has resulted in a more clinical, less personal approach to care. However, positive gestures like a Christmas cracker and thoughtful gifts, such as toiletries and slippers, provided a comforting touch during difficult times.

Personal Reflection on Socialized Healthcare

The experience of having all meals provided and the support of medical staff contrasts sharply with the comfort and privacy of home. I miss my satellite TV, networked smart TV, and the freedom to move around without the physical constraints of being a patient. Yet, the meals served in the hospital are a welcome comfort during a difficult period.

While many argue that socialized healthcare is a bad idea, I can attest to its benefits. In both England and Scotland, the focus on patient comfort and care remains, even amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic. The infrastructure of healthcare in these countries ensures a supportive and nourishing environment during critical times.

The idea of returning to a situation where I have to rely solely on my own resources is unappealing. The thought of making my own bed and washing my linen regularly seems daunting compared to the post-hospital warm and comfortable duvet.

Reflecting on these experiences, it is clear that while socialized healthcare has its drawbacks, the advantages in terms of patient care and support cannot be underestimated. The pandemic has further highlighted the importance of these systems in providing a reliable and comforting environment for those in need of medical attention.

As a patient, my main concern is the improvement in nursing attitudes and communication, which would significantly enhance the overall hospital experience.