Information in hospital

When my elderly aunt was in hospital I asked to see her consultant preferably or the registrar . The ward sister arranged it for me.

When my mother in law was in hospital,the staff would only speak to next of kin,my husband,even though we lived 120 miles away and the rest of the family visited daily as they were within 5 miles of the hospital.We found the best way to get information was to ring and make an appointment as you can’t rely on someone being available at visiting times.

Just make a sudden appearance on the ward and someone's bound to approach you, then don't leave until you have the satisfaction of knowing.

Surely if she is so Ill they should be able to visit anytime they should ask if this is so and that a doctor be around to speak to them.

We emailed PALS on a Sunday evening on behalf of a friend struggling with a threatened discharge, she had a visit from PALS Monday afternoon. The speed could just have been luck I know. Contacting them can only be a positive step.

I just wanted to add that I think you can email pals.
If they did that, at least it'll start the ball rolling, if they feel they're being overlooked.

Glad we helped a bit Kate but there is Nothing stopping you or someone else close to the family speaking to the consultants secretary. Doctors are busy but not too busy if they are asked to meet with family to discuss treatment etc. Good luck.

Yes, that's often the problem when you're worn out with it all.
Pals are very good with this sort of thing, as I think they're relieved when its something that's easily sorted.
Hope it all goes ok.

Thank you so much for your advice. I think that going via PALS will probably be best for them as I don't think they're emotionally capable of pushing themselves

Agree with missa, PALS should be able to organise this for them. Alternatively I think I’d phone and ask to speak to her consultants secretary and ask formally for an appointment, alternatively ask the ward manager to arrange something. It is sometimes more than difficult to track the right person down which makes serious illness all the harder for family. Wishing them well. It’s a worrying time.

Sensible minds think alike, silver

Snap MissA.

Suggest family say they want to speak to a doctor and request A meeting with the doctor involved. This should not be a problem. Otherwise speak to PALS ( patient liaison) at the hospital. Or if you know the doctors name ring the hospital and ask to speak to his/her secretary.

They really do have to be very, very insistent, almost to the point of making nuisances of themselves.
Ask when a doctor will be available to see them, and say that they urgently need to speak to someone.
If they have no luck, they could ask PALS to help.