Introduction

I'm getting on a bit.

Born in the late 1940s, things are starting to creak and go wrong, with the result that I'm using more and more NHS resource.

The NHS has been described as the nearest thing to a UK-wide religion. It currently employs one in fifteen of those in employment in the UK, and this is forecast to rise to one in eight over the next 20 years. It's the worlds 5th biggest employer, behind only the USA and Chinese armies, Walmart and McDonalds.

I'm concerned that this growth is unsustainable, and that costs are already close to unaffordable. Is it possible to maintain the current NHS services and add new techniques and treatments as medical science and technology advance?

This blog is intended to give an insight into my experiences of the NHS, good and not-so-good. It is not intended as a forum for any or all of praise, criticism or complaint. No names are provided and I've not included dates as I do not want to see any attempt to follow this through.

I've not really attempted to draw conclusions or recommend solutions although some of my comments may head it that direction.

I am grateful that the NHS exists and provides the medical support needed, although not always in a timely, pleasant or effective way.

One general observation, though, that I find unavoidable - NHS staff at all levels must have excellent interpersonal skills, and in particular a positive and caring attitude. Most do, some don't and the latter damage attitudes and perceptions of the service as a whole. And I hate being patronised.... it happens.

Of course, NHS staff need patience when dealing with some of the less pleasant patients I've seen in A&E and elsewhere. I don't envy staff members then........