Hospital patients' privacy

A couple of weeks ago, I had to go to the emergency department of Mater Dei Hospital as a fishbone lodged itself in my throat. I did not have to wait long before I was called to the emergency ENT Ward where I was pleased to meet a young doctor who was gentle and caring. As the bone could not be traced, I was admitted to the ENT Ward for further investigation. It was my first experience at Mater Dei Hospital. In the theatre, I was approached by a team of friendly medical professionals who, in no time, made me feel relaxed and secure.

The ward was more better than I expected perhaps because I still keep in mind the old buildings of St Luke's Hospital. The place was impeccably clean and welcoming. Even here, the staff was friendly and the service, as always, was the best. Everyone, even foreign patients, had nothing but praise for the hospital and the service.

But not all modern approaches are accepted by the public. Having mixed sex patients in the same ward is not acceptable. This is not only my impression. Having a mixed sex room due to an exceptional emergency is one thing, but as a rule of thumb or due to lack of management, is another.

Patients, young and old, are people with pride and dignity. Everyone in my ward was comfortable but felt it would be disrespectful to fellow patients to enclose themselves in their cubicle by drawing the curtains. The authorities should rectify the matter. Privacy is also a virtue we must endorse.