Letter: NHS does a better job than “Dr Google”

WE hear so many bad things about the NHS, I would like to describe my experience on 15th March.

I woke with a very swollen and painful eye which I had assumed was sinusitis or conjunctivitis.

According to ‘Dr Google’ it would heal by itself within a few days. The mirror told a different story. Panic ensued.

At 6am I emailed 111 for advice. I was sent a form asking many different questions about my recent health which was easy to fill in and send. Within 10 minutes I had a phone call from a very helpful advisor who asked if I recently had shingles.

She suggested that this virus might be the cause and organised a phone call from a doctor. He explained that the virus could cause damage to my eyes and immediately referred me to Southampton hospital as it has a specialised emergency casualty eye clinic.

At 8am I was registered at reception and quickly had a triage session to check up my overall health and my problem with vision. Shortly afterwards I had a thorough eye test with a specialist doctor who explained the situation and prescribed anti-viral treatments.

By midday I was back at home with the medication. No further panic due to the excellent and well organised help. My GP practice was informed of the treatment in order to monitor the case. I would like to thank all the staff involved for the finest of care.

No praise for Dr Google.

Shona Irvine

Barton