Share review of Dr Jessica Bate

Dr Jessica Bate 2020-11-12 Person 5 5 0

I have always thought that to care for sick children requires a special kind of person. From the minute we met Jessica, we as a family, felt in good hands. As a paediatric oncologist, Jessica is careful to speak to the patient but includes the family at all times from diagnosis to ongoing care. We received straightforward explanations of what was happening and what would happen next and were given every opportunity to ask questions either face to face, over the phone or by email. In all cases Jessica was quick to respond and we always felt that she had time for us. In our particular case, we sought a second opinion of a diagnosis given by another consultant from another hospital. Jessica personally sought that opinion on our behalf quickly to help us make a difficult life changing decision for and with our daughter. Whilst the initial diagnosis was supported by the second opinion, Jessica understood our concerns from the outset and was fully supportive of our approach at all times. Recognising the length of care required for our daughter and the impact of long travel to receive it, Jessica sought to obtain treatment at our local hospital where possible, resolving funding issues between NHS trusts and making day to day arrangements for this to happen which are almost certainly beyond her job remit. Jessica's ability to engage and relate to young people was evident from the start of care, full of conversation, she always remembers what is going on in our daughter's life, what her brother and sister are up to etc. Jessica is clearly very passionate about the work that she does which includes delivering some difficult news to young patients and their families. We could not have asked for a more professional, kind and supportive consultant and whilst our daughter remains in Jessica's care for the forseeable future, we know we are in good hands. The only constructive criticism I can offer is that she needs to develop her range of jokes!! She has a great sense of humour and always has a smile for the children.