Hexham General Hospital - Hexham

Dan G.

I took my ill father suspected of having a stroke to Hexham General Hospital. Upon arrival he was asked to sit down in the reception area where there was no information or compassion offered by the receptionist despite the serious nature of our visit. The receptionist began asking my father questions but due to his condition he was suffering from memory loss, confusion, fear, disassociation and disorientation. Despite this she insisted on confirming information which made the situation even more distressing.

As his condition worsened I asked for an update only to receive a cold and unhelpful response. After a long wait we were finally seen by a nurse practitioner who instructed me to take my father to the A&E in Newcastle 22.3 miles away. After further persistence I was eventually given a medical letter for a quicker referral to the RVI Stroke Team. This letter allowed my father to be admitted more promptly to the A&E at the Royal Victoria Infirmary.

It seems ridiculous that my father was hampered by an outdated system prioritising the collection of correct data over providing immediate medical assistance in such a critical situation. While I am grateful for the final referral the lack of communication, urgency and empathy during our time at Hexham Hospital was extremely disappointing and concerning.

I hope they can improve their patient care and communication as this experience was not what I expected from a hospital when dealing with a potentially life-threatening situation.

1 star given instead of 0 due to the referral letter.

M Z.

The receptionist (Nicole/Nicola and had a double barrelled surname I didn’t catch) was exceptionally rude when asked basic questions about my visit in a polite manner. Told me to ‘book a GP appointment’ across the room (considering I was in urgent care it would suggest that waiting to book an GP appointment wasn’t an option) she also loudly questioned my symptoms in earshot of other patients. She was exceptionally unprofessional, made the experience significantly more stressful and is a stain on this otherwise great hospital. The nurse and doctor I saw were exceptional, polite, efficient and made me feel at ease.

Jessica L.

I took my partner to the UTC yesterday evening. From walking in to leaving took 50 minutes! The speed and efficiency was amazing. All the staff were amazing including x-ray staff. Hexham UTC will definitely be my first port of call for minor injuries.

Carol G.

Had surgery in podiatry department on 11th October. Received first class treatment from all nurses and surgeon. Made you feel at ease as soon as entering reception. Did lots of checks and verification of patient details even when in theatre. Walking into the hospital is like walking into an hotel. Bright and cheerful. Was given lots of info at pre and post op and the opportunity to ask questions in a relaxed manner.

Sally P.

We were on holiday, my 87 year old dad’s leg was extremely sore and broke out into an ulcer. I rang a local GP who recommended Urgent Care Walk In at Hexham Hospital. We arrived and within 5 minutes of waiting we were seen by a lovely nurse, she dressed dad’s leg and gave him course of antibiotics. All the people we came into contact with were helpful and kind. Thank you so much to the lovely nurse who treated dad, you all do an amazing job and we would be lost without you.

Vivien H.

Fantastic care and service from everyone at the Hexham Walk In Centre today (31/8/24) From booking in, assessment, X-ray and having treatment the staff were excellent. 45 minutes from start to finish! Thank you all.

Luke S.

On holiday and my son needed an x-ray following a footballing injury. In-and-out in under 40 minutes!! Very clean and modern hospital. Caring and attentive staff. Thank you!

Scott N.

Wonderful staff, really caring and compassionate especially when your nervous in hospitals. Got access to rapid treatment after an an accident.