Professor Beverley Vollenhoven AM, Director of Gynaecology and Research, Women’s and Newborn Program joined Chief Executive Andrew Stripp at this week’s employee forum to share another patient story.
The patient had severe premenstrual dysphoric disorder and received a laparoscopic hysterectomy and removal of ovaries at Moorabbin Hospital – in her letter of compliment, the patient thanked and commended everyone involved in her care, including gynecologist, oncologists, anesthetists, surgeons, and nurses.
“After suffering a very negative and traumatic experience at another hospital, I was completely petrified of ever having to undergo any type of surgery again and afraid I may suffer the same consequence. Well I have to tell you, Monash is by far the most professional, caring and diligent hospital I have ever had the pleasure of staying and receiving treatment from……….I am sure there are some hospitals who could really learn and be better educated from your processes, close attention to detail and patient safety procedures, I felt as though I was completely pampered, and all of your wonderful people could not have done enough to make me feel at ease in your hospital.”
During the forum Beverley discussed with Andrew the importance of listening to our patients and the role this plays in making our patients’ experience a positive one.
“It is important to listen to what the person in front of you is saying, and to listen in a non-judgmental way. Often people aren’t happy with their experience because they feel they have not been listened to and no one has taken their symptoms seriously – listening and being empathetic is the really important thing”.
View other patient stories shared at our employee forums here.
Approved by Anjali Dhulia