A friend’s medical treatment showed me what a well-funded NHS would look like | Letter

Over the past week I have experienced what a well-funded healthcare system could look like. After suddenly becoming unwell, the patient was immediately offered an emergency appointment for initial treatment on Sunday morning, with follow-up appointments scheduled for the next two days.

His condition worsened and he was admitted to hospital for scans and tests, with no shortage of medicines to ease his symptoms. In the meantime, I was kept informed of his progress and was constantly consulted about the possibilities. When it became clear that any small chance of recovery would require intensive and invasive treatment that would have a major impact on his quality of life, we were given a private room to spend time together; he was then offered a dignified and painless death.

He was my cat, and he was treated by a typical local veterinary practice, amply staffed with caring professionals and support staff who I assume (due to the current lack of industrial action) are appropriately rewarded for their skills. However, the fact is that getting veterinary treatment either requires significant insurance or is eye-wateringly expensive. But imagine what our National Health Service could be if we could fund it to the same extent.

As a basic taxpayer, after this week’s experience I would be happy to pay more if I could be assured that it would be earmarked for the NHS. I could then be reassured that I would be treated as well as my cat.
Anne Koeper
Bishopston, Swansea