Mr Vanash Patel

Written by a NHS patient at Watford General Hospital

I was diagnosed with rectal cancer in January 2021. I saw Dr. Patel on 1st February to discuss findings of tests. There was a possibility that it had spread to my lungs so Dr. Patel arranged a PET scan which showed that the cancer was confined to bowels and nothing in lungs. He then decided that I would tolerate surgery and went through the options with me. Having come to a decision I was referred for surgery and had the operation on 17.3.21. During the whole process I was kept informed of what was happening and received the best possible care from Dr. Patel and all the staff at Watford General Hospital. I now have a new lease of life and look forward to the future.

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Written by a NHS patient at Watford General Hospital

What can I say about Vanash Patel and his team that hadn’t already been said. He cares! I was extremely worried when I was given my diagnosis but when my wife and I met him, it didn’t take long to get the reassurance that we both needed. He and the team have a knack of putting things in perspective and the clearer things are for patients, the easier it is to get through the procedures that lay ahead. We were both amazed with the follow up calls from the specialist nurses and how we were made to feel like individuals with our own unique set of concerns. We’ve never felt like just one of many. We thank him and the MDT for all their input. How things have changed over the years, from “don’t ask questions”, to ask what you like. As much information as one can ask for. Well done Mr. P. and thank you

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Written by a NHS patient at Hemel Hempstead General Hospital

I was seen/spoken to via the pathway and in spite of the COVID problems, Dr Vanash followed up with my investigations diligently. So thankful.

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Written by a NHS patient at Watford General Hospital

Mr (Vanesh) Patel is amazing. I have had some terrible news, but he and his team have been open, honest and compassionate in explaining to me the current situation, and the way forward. He has clarified each step, asking me how it was, how I felt, and been responsive to my needs. He has been calm, positive but enquiring as to how I am coping with the situation. He has called within hours of new information being available, to keep me updated. He has arranged an endoscopy and a scan almost immediately. Everyone knows my file, is warm and personal, but professional. Cancer nurses, again knowing my file, have called to follow up. The whole team (Watford General/nursing specialists) is joined up and reassuring in the circumstances. I will not go on the internet to research information, as I have complete trust and confidence in the information I have been given (verbal and specific McMillan booklet). I only wish that all nhs patients (like me) had this level of care. Unfortunately we don’t often hear good news stories. Difficult to suggest how the service could be improved, to be honest, but I will keep mindful of this!

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Written by a NHS patient at Watford General Hospital

Mr Patel carried out my bowel operation in Jan 2021 (at the height of the pandemic). The operation was completely successful and the care I received was excellent. The recovery has been easier than I expected so all round I am extremely happy with my experience.

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