Worst hospital experience ever

The worst hospital experience I have encountered from a private hospital. I was taken by ambulance to the casualty for a suspected heart attack. In extreme chest pains, sweating, numbness of the body. Upon entering casualty, we were greeted by staff, who complained to the ambulance staff, of why they did not call before arriving. Which was done, in my home before going there.

A very caring doctor saw me and requested for tests to be done, and the results confirmed that I indeed suffered a heart attack and requested I get admitted into high care, until a Cardiologist sees me in the morning.

Admissions then demanded R1500, to be paid prior to admission. We informed them that they need to get authorisation from my medical aid, the repose was this is a co payment. In desperation for treatment, I paid the amount and was admitted.

Out of the 3 staff that treated me, 2 need proper training on communication, treatment and care. The male nurse Vamo was amazing. He treated me with respect and truly cares for patients. As for the other 2, there was no interaction at all, I was refused water, food and allowed to make contact with my family and work to advise them I was in the hospital or assistance when required. The response I got was. “I was late today for work” “We are over worked and under paid” “ Why are you asking us to smile or greet you, you must smile and greet if you want. They did nothing to make my stay as pleasant or comfortable.

I had a double stent inserted into my arteries at around 8.30am and discharged at 12pm. The brilliant staff Vamo saw it fit to keep me longer as I was still bleeding excessively. I received no communication from the Cardiologist Dr M.D Mashilo for a follow up appointment, the chronic medication that he prescribed was not updated with my medical aid. I need to now go back to him, no dietician saw me, no out of hospital care was communicated.

My medical Aid confirmed that NO CO Payments was required, when they queried this with the hospital. They were told it’s an error and I must contact them for a refund.