Care Opinion

How can the consultant's surname be confidential?

Posted By j-plymouth

"How can the consultant's surname be confidential?"

About: Derriford Hospital / Cardiology

(as a carer),

I was phoned by a member of staff from Moorgate Ward at Derriford Hospital with helpful information about a cordless phone number that can be used to reach patients (including my family member who is on the ward).

They told me that the consultant would phone me to give me progress on the patient. I asked what was the consultants name and was told just their first name.  I asked for the surname and was told that they were unable to tell me for reasons of confidentiality. Isn't that silly?

If I need to ask to contact the consultant at the hospital I need their surname. How can the consultant's surname be in any way confidential?

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Responses

Response from Alison Stanton, Complaints and PALS Manager, University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust nearly 2 years ago
Alison Stanton
Complaints and PALS Manager,
University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust

Submitted on 30/05/2023 at 12:00
Published on Care Opinion at 12:00

picture of Alison Stanton

Thank you for contacting us and leaving a review.

I am glad that the staff were able to provide information about the cordless phone which can be used to communicate with relatives on the ward.

In regard to the consultant's surname, I am not aware of a reason why the surname could not have been given out, unless if the consultant wanted to discuss this with you over the phone.

I am more than happy for the ward to be contacted again and, if you ask for the nurse in charge, we will be able to give this information out and will be able to chase the consultant conversation to ensure that this happens.

Kind regards,

Phoebe Haigh

Ward Manager Moorgate Ward

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