Why not video conferencing? (David Cole)
We are all very frustrated with what we perceive as a less than adequate service from the NHS, especially when the excuse is a lack of funds.
A very dear friend of mine has to go to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary for what I think is a serious operation. As part of the procedure a “pre-op” interview is scheduled. So far as part of the diagnosis a biopsy has been performed and this apparently forbids her to fly for some time.
The “required” pre-op interview will be a “hands off” discussion across a desk, lasting perhaps 20 to 30 minutes.
As flying is out of the question this means a boat down, a whole day in Aberdeen, and a boat trip back.
At this time of the year this is something I would not relish especially if I was ill. What about the costs and the time consumed to go to the mainland and back.
In these days of advanced technology we know the Gilbert Bain Hospital has invested in a video-conferencing system. How much did that cost, particularly if it is not to be used in ideal situations such as this, especially as an instant and
How much did that cost, particularly if it is not to be used in ideal situations such as this, especially as an instant and accurate record would be made?
The administrative department of the Gilbert Bain Hospital has come under criticism and reluctantly I think this may be a prime example.
David Cole
Craigside,
Gulberwick.
Andy Holt
Something happens to ordinary human beings when they gain control of large budgets, in opaque organisations such as large government departments like the MOD, local authorities, banks and the NHS. It is so common an observable phenomenon as to possibly demonstrate an immutable law. We, willingly or reluctantly, pay our taxes, rates or run a bank account. The government department, NHS, council or bank takes our money and it becomes theirs. The goverment, local and national spends it and the banks gamble with it and somehow because it’s not really their’s but ours any sense of stewardship and responsibility is missing. Hence, brand new warships that need instant re-engining, tugs that don’t steer straight, gold standard computer systems for bog standard jobs, dodgy banks and straight thinking about hospital appointments and the need or not to involve patient travel and wasted time. Basically it’s the price you pay if you want nanny to do it for you.