Pick up the phone

SO 30,000 people have not turned up for their appointments at Derriford Hospital over the past 12 months (The Herald, September 13).

I am sure many felt that they had a good reason; too far to travel, no transport available, felt too ill to make the journey, couldn't get parked, couldn't find a wheelchair, couldn't be bothered.

To all of these I would say "pick up the phone" and give someone else the opportunity to use your appointment window.

Having spent many hours in Derriford's waiting areas (and they are not the most welcoming of places) over the past five years and also having experienced the extended waiting times, just to get an appointment, it makes me feel that there is only one way to go with this.

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If people do not have a genuine reason for not turning up for a scheduled appointment, especially as they will have received a letter and an automated telephone reminder (which gives them an opportunity to let the hospital know they can't make it), then the hospital should fine them.

After all, our hospital teams and their support groups are stretched enough as it is. What do readers feel about this unacceptable situation?

SANDY (BRIAN) SAUNDERS

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