Darent Valley Hospital
Darenth Wood Road, Dartford, Kent, DA2 8DAContact details and Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)
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Reviews
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Review titled Cancelled appointments
Rated 2 stars out of 5
by Anonymous - Posted on 21 July 2024
My gynaecologist stated she would like to see me as a 3 month follow-up, this was last November!! My appointment has been cancelled 3 times since, also on short notice. Everyone I know who is under this hospital as an outpatient is always having there appointments cancelled, including my grandad who was due to have his cancer removed by the surgeons, his surgery was cancelled and pushed back to over a month later!! I really think this hospital needs looking into the amount of appointments that are being cancelled and the amount of time that passes until patients are followed-up! This is really not acceptable.
Visited Gynaecology on July 2024
Review titled Darent Valley Hospital
Replied on 22 July 2024
Dear Anonymous, We are sincerely sorry to hear about the repeated cancellations of your follow-up appointments and the distress this has caused. We understand how frustrating and concerning it can be to have your healthcare disrupted, especially when it involves essential follow-up care and critical treatments like your grandfather's cancer surgery. Please know that your feedback is extremely important to us, and we assure you that we are taking your concerns very seriously. The frequency of appointment cancellations and delays is not in line with the standard of care we aim to provide to our patients. To address this issue promptly, we urge you to contact our patient advice and liaison services team directly at dgn-tr.PALS@nhs.net. Additionally, we will look into the broader issues you mentioned regarding outpatient appointment scheduling and work on improving our processes to better serve our patients. Once again, we apologise for the inconvenience and anxiety these cancellations have caused. Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention. We are committed to improving our services and ensuring that you and your grandfather receive the timely and uninterrupted care you need. Kind regards Darent Valley Hospital
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Review titled Fabulous team
Rated 5 stars out of 5
by Elizabeth - Posted on 25 June 2024
I spent a week at the hospital - Monday the 17th in isolation in A&E then the rest of the time in Rosewood ward Rm 5 and bed 28. I am in awe of all the amazing people I came into contact with during my time at the hospital. I was treated with respect, care and honesty from the moment I arrived by ambulance to the moment I walked out 1000 times better a week later. Everyone greeted me by my name. Listened. Supported and helped. Fed me, watered me and generally cared for me until the medications were able to let me help myself. I never felt anything other than that everyone had my best interests at heart, and that's not just the skilled doctors but the not so skilled too. I listened to lots of them being abused and harangued by patients and relatives but saw nothing but good nature in return. The way lots of the team cared for those who have no idea where in their worlds they are, made me emotional. An amazing team of people who just kept giving and all the time with the humming sound of laughter and cameraderie in the air. Thank you all, for far more than you realise. You've helped heal body and soul.
Visited General Medicine on June 2024
Review titled Darent Valley Hospital
Replied on 01 July 2024
Dear Elizabeth Thank you so much for your heartfelt and touching message. We are deeply moved by your words and immensely grateful that you took the time to share your experience with us. It's incredibly rewarding to hear that you felt respected, cared for, and supported from the moment you arrived until you left feeling much better. Our team strives to create a welcoming and compassionate environment for all our patients, and knowing that we achieved this for you is truly humbling. We are especially glad that you noticed the dedication and good nature of our staff, even in challenging situations. Your acknowledgment of their hard work and positive attitudes means a lot to us. It's moments like these that remind us why we do what we do. Thank you for highlighting the camaraderie and the spirit of our team. Laughter and unity are indeed part of the healing process, and we are delighted that you felt this during your stay. Wishing you continued health and well-being. Best wishes Darent Valley Hospital
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Review titled Extremely poor practice
Rated 1 star out of 5
by Debbie Walford - Posted on 18 June 2024
My mum was sent from Gravesend hospital for a CT scan on her head after a fall at home. We waited over 2.5 hrs for the results of the scan. My dad and l were told each time we asked at reception how long we would have to wait, that the Dr had logged onto my mums results and we would be seen "in a minute"...we felt like we were being fobbed off with excuses each time. Eventually after these extremely long minutes we were seen in Majors .. Where very conveniently the Dr said oh l was just coming out to call you:..At one point we were told by reception that they were waiting to see if my mum needed to be admitted. But no one had mentioned this to us.When we eventually saw the Dr even he seemed surprised at this news. Also reception sent us down to CT unit and said they would give us the results and the staff down there were surprised that we had been told this. I realise that A &E dept is an extremely busy and stressful place to work and wait. But l have never had a positive experience at this hospital with my late mother in law or my parents...my dad was in A & E last week with a burst varicose vein and l had to ask for a clean bandage to hold dressing on his leg as the staff were going to send him home with the blood stained bandage he had on ...This hospital lacks communication skills and what communications are passed are not shared correctly between staff and patients/ family. The left hand doesn't know what the right hands doing... The parking is another extreme problem as is the dropping off/ picking up area
Visited Accident and emergency services on June 2024
Review titled Darent Valley Hospital
Replied on 01 July 2024
Dear Debbie, We are sorry to hear about your recent experience at Gravesend hospital. It is concerning to learn about the challenges you faced while waiting for your mother's CT scan results and the communication issues that added to your distress. Please accept our apologies for the inconvenience and frustration you endured. We understand that waiting for medical results can be a very anxious time, and it is unacceptable that you felt fobbed off and misinformed. Clear and timely communication is essential in providing quality care, and it is clear that we did not meet those standards during your visit. Your feedback regarding the inconsistencies between different departments and the lack of communication among our staff is particularly troubling. This should never happen, and we assure you that we take these issues very seriously. Additionally, the incident involving your father and the inadequate handling of his wound dressing is unacceptable, and we apologise for this oversight. Regarding the parking and drop-off/pick-up areas, we recognise there can be issues and have looked at how this can be improved. To ensure your concerns are investigated and addressed, we urge you to contact our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS). They are dedicated to assisting patients and their families with issues like yours and can provide the support needed to formally address these problems. You can reach PALS via email at dgn-tr.PALS@nhs.net . Once again, we are sorry for the negative experiences you and your family have had at Gravesend hospital. We are committed to learning from your feedback and making the necessary improvements to prevent such situations in the future. Sincerely, Darent Valley Hospital
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Review titled Great Staff
Rated 5 stars out of 5
by Avril Heathcote - Posted on 15 June 2024
I went for a Colonoscopy today at Darenth and I was so anxious but from the receptionist, nurses , Surgeons everyone was amazing . The nurses put you at ease and couldn't do more for me. The nurses and doctors involved in the procedure were lovely at every moment and talked to me put me at ease and very professional. Ten out of Ten for me.
Visited Diagnostic Endoscopy on June 2024
Review titled Darent Valley Hospital
Replied on 18 June 2024
Dear Avril Thank you so much for sharing your positive experience! It's wonderful to hear that the entire team at Darent Valley —from the receptionist to the nurses and surgeons—made you feel comfortable and well cared for. It's clear they all did an exceptional job in alleviating your anxiety and ensuring a smooth procedure. Your kind words and perfect score are a testament to their professionalism and dedication. We'll be sure to pass along your compliments to the team! With our best wishes Darent Valley Hospital
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Review titled Terrible Hospital
Rated 1 star out of 5
by Lauren - Posted on 01 July 2024
Terrible hospital. Took down my 1st review as they think I made a complaint when I didn’t. Go anywhere else to get help as this hospital will not help you. The consultant (the only one on shift) was terrible. The triage nurse was unhelpful. 95% of staff had no empathy and didn’t even bother to ask if I was ok and if I needed help when I was sobbing my heart out in pain. I do not recommend. Go anywhere else.
Visited Accident and emergency services on June 2024
Review titled Darent Valley Hospital
Replied on 11 July 2024
Dear Lauren We understand your frustration and are sorry to hear about your negative experience. We want to clarify that we did not take down your original review. We take all feedback seriously and aim to improve based on patient experiences. Your comments are valuable to us, if you’d like to discuss your experience further, please contact our PALS team directly. Telephone: 01322 428382 or email: dgn-tr.PALS@nhs.net. Thank you for bringing this to our attention. Kind regards Darent Valley Hospital
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Review titled Excellent care.
Rated 5 stars out of 5
by L. Jones - Posted on 05 May 2024
Had a gastroscopy procedure. Cannot fault the care and professionalism of the staff on the unit. Made me feel at ease and explained everything. Cannot speak highly enough of them. The cup of tea wasn't bad either.
Visited Diagnostic Endoscopy on May 2024
Review titled Darent Valley Hospital
Replied on 07 May 2024
Dear L Jones Thank you for taking the time to write this review, your comment about the cup of tea made us smile! With our best wishes Darent Valley Hospital
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Review titled Palm ward 23/05/2024
Rated 4 stars out of 5
by Karen Collins - Posted on 24 May 2024
Night staff went above and beyond for my mums family who were at her bedside when she was critically unwell, the staff made us a cup of tea and were very friendly and kept us informed of any changes.
Visited Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease on May 2024
Review titled Darent Valley Hospital
Replied on 28 May 2024
Dear Karen Thank you so much for your kind words. We are deeply touched to hear about the care and support our night staff provided to your mum and your family during such a difficult time. It is our mission to offer not only the best medical care but also compassion and comfort to our patients and their loved ones. Your feedback means a lot to us and will be shared with the team. We are proud of our staff for going above and beyond to ensure you felt supported and informed. With our best wishes Darent Valley Hospital
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Review titled Very professional and Caring
Rated 5 stars out of 5
by Kevin Ramsay - Posted on 30 May 2024
I was recently admitted to the AMU ward for heart problems. I arrived at A+E and understandably it was along wait to be seen but was prepared for this. The reception staff to the nurses in triage do an exemplary job in difficult circumstances. I was then moved to the AMU ward for several days. The staff on that ward from the caterers, porters, cleaners and nursing staff were absolutely fantastic, professional, caring and nothing was too much trouble. Always a smile on there face, take the time to talk to you. I could not fault the care received. Thank you to all the staff for doing an excellent job and going above and beyond
Visited Cardiology on May 2024
Review titled Darent Valley Hospital
Replied on 30 May 2024
Dear Kevin Thank you so much for taking the time to share your positive experience with us. We are delighted to hear that, despite the initial wait at A&E, you found our reception staff and triage nurses to be exemplary in their care. We are especially pleased to know that your stay in the AMU ward was marked by such a high level of professionalism, compassion, and dedication from all our team members, including the caterers, porters, cleaners, and nursing staff. Your kind words about their smiles, willingness to engage, and overall attentiveness are truly appreciated. It is heartening to hear that you felt well-cared for and that our team's efforts made a difference during your stay. We will be sure to pass on your thanks to everyone involved. Your feedback serves as a great encouragement to us all to continue providing the best possible care to our patients. Thank you once again for your kind words and for recognising the hard work of our staff. We wish you the very best in your recovery. Warm regards, Darent Valley Hospital
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Review titled Appointment service
Rated 1 star out of 5
by Paul - Posted on 08 May 2024
Just wondering why there is an appointment booking service for blood when they allow walk ins to be done before appointments when I have specifically made an appointment due to having other things to be doing I think it is descusting that this is allowed to happen. I was late due to this for another appointment not very happy at least 2 walking were given number before me and dealt with even after my appointment time.
Visited Don't know on May 2024
Review titled Darent Valley Hospital
Replied on 22 May 2024
Dear Paul Thank you for reaching out to us and sharing your experience. We apologise for the inconvenience you encountered during your recent visit. Our goal is to ensure a smooth and efficient process for everyone, whether they have an appointment or are walking in. We regret that this was not your experience and that it affected your schedule. We understand how frustrating it is to make an appointment and still face delays, especially when you have other commitments. We are committed to honoring appointment times and ensuring that our valued patients like yourself are seen promptly. Your feedback is invaluable to us as it helps improve our services. If you have any further concerns or would like to discuss this matter in more detail, please do not hesitate to contact us directly. Once again, we apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Kind regards, Darent Valley Hospital
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Review titled Outstanding care
Rated 5 stars out of 5
by Amanda - Posted on 11 April 2024
I had a wisdom tooth extracted, it was a quick and painless procedure. The doctor and nurse were caring and professional and made me feel reassured and safe. I couldn’t fault a single thing with the department from the reception staff to the nursing assistant who, as I have difficulty walking, took my prescription to the hospital pharmacy. This department and its staff are a credit to your hospital.
Visited Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery on April 2024
Review titled Darent Valley Hospital
Replied on 07 May 2024
Dear Amanda Thank you for taking the time to write this glowing review, we will ensure your kind words are passed onto the staff. With our best wishes Darent Valley Hospital
Information supplied by Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust