PATIENTS don't always have patience, an independent healthcare watchdog report shows.
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In Tamworth, 24 per cent of patients who went to the hospital Emergency Department did so because they couldn't see their GP within a reasonable time frame.
Another two per cent went because it's cheaper than other options and 16 per cent because their local doctor's surgery was closed.
Despite the hustle and bustle of any ED, the Bureau of Health Information (BHI) report showed a staggering majority of patients felt they were treated politely, with dignity and respect at Tamworth hospital.
Even if 19 per cent of people think the chairs are uncomfortable.
Improvements in patient experiences were noticeable across the state, CHI chief executive Dr Diane Watson said.
"Patients' experiences are an important factor in the overall quality and outcomes of their care," she said.
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"These results show ED patients in NSW had more positive experiences overall and across their journey of care when compared with the previous year's survey.
"Healthcare professionals now have these results which they can use to tailor care to the needs of their patients."
Overall, 66 per cent of survey respondents rated the care they received at Tamworth hospital as very good, even if most people spent more than four hours in the waiting room.
In more concerning statistics, 15 per cent of respondents said they saw or heard threatening behaviour towards ED staff while at Tamworth hospital.
Hunter New England Health was contacted for comment, but did not respond before this article went to press.
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