FAQs

Can visitors stay overnight?

A visitor may be allowed to stay overnight. You will need to discuss this with your nurse who will try to accommodate you if this is appropriate. There may be situations when it would be inappropriate for visitors to stay, for example, if it prevented the safe administration of drugs or care.

What will my consultant do?

Your consultant is responsible for directing your medical care and will advise the appropriate team on any necessary tests and/or treatments you may need. Medical cover is provided around the clock by Harley Street at UCH doctors who have direct contact with your consultant.

Do I need to sign consent forms?

You will need to consent to your treatment, operation or other procedures as a medico-legal requirement. Your consultant will fully explain why you need your operation and/or treatment, including the risks and possible side-effects. When you feel satisfied that you understand and all your questions have been answered both you and your consultant will sign the consent form. You will need to sign only one consent form for a course of chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatments. However, if you have additional treatments or procedures carried out during your stay you will need to sign additional consent form(s). Do not hesitate to ask for help or assistance if there is anything that is confusing or worrying for you, or, if you feel you have not received all relevant verbal or written information to help you understand your giving of consent. Please ask your nurse who will provide appropriate information leaflets, which are available in English and other languages.

What if I change my mind?

It is important to remember that once you have made a decision about treatment, you can change your mind at any time, even after you have signed a consent form. If you agree to take part in a research project or clinical trial, you will also be given written information and asked to sign a consent form. Again, you can withdraw your consent at any time.

How do I raise an issue or give feedback?

Your care is our concern. We hope you have no complaints about your stay with us. However, we know that there may be times when your expectations are not met. We ask you, therefore, to please tell us about any problems that you may experience however small. In continually striving to improve our service and care, your comments help us a great deal.

Whilst in hospital if you have any concerns that have not been addressed by us, please ask to speak to the Duty Manager who is available during the day.

You can tell us whilst in hospital by completing a confidential and anonymous patient questionnaire and handing it in to one of the staff. Alternatively you can complete and post this once you get home. All questionnaires are reviewed and actioned, if required. The questionnaires as a whole are reviewed quarterly and results circulated within the HCA group. A copy of the patient satisfaction survey can be requested from the office of the Chief Executive Officer/Chief Operating Officer. You may also raise an issue with your nurse or the nurse in charge who will be proactive in trying to resolve the issue as soon as possible.