Congratulations to Royal Berkshire Hospital
It may have been founded in 1836, but this hospital is thoroughly modern when it comes to understanding what patients need.
When the first sad Coronavirus fatality happed here, their Press Office, unlike many NHS press offices, knew exactly what to do – and immediately issued a statement : –
Sadly we can confirm that an older patient with underlying health conditions has died. The patient has previously been in and out of hospital for non-coronavirus reasons, but on this occasion was admitted and last night tested positive for coronavirus.
The family has been informed and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.
We will not be commenting further and ask that everybody respects the family’s privacy.
Public Health England is contacting anyone who may have come into contact with the affected patient to offer advice.
All services and appointments at the hospital are running normally. The Trust is following established guidelines to minimise the risk of the virus spreading.
This is how to do it
The statement was short – covered the necessary information, was dignified and reassuring to patients who were understandably concerned about their own care.
No fudging – no ambiguity – honest facts with compassion and understanding.
Other NHS hospital press offices take note – this is how to do it.