I would like to air my views on the state of the blood test department Braintree.

I had to take my sister up and the first thing we are presented with was broken electrically operated automatic doors.

I do not know how long these had been in such a bad state of repair but it clearly shows a severe lack of proper maintenance.

I do not know how the NHS expects someone with disabilities to either push the doors or even pull them open, let alone emergency services with someone on a stretcher.

Secondly, I had complained to the management before about the lack of cold water drink machines.

They expect patients to drink plenty of water (to enable easy access to the vein when blood sample taken) yet they have done absolutely nothing about it, and what about when the warmer weather gets here?

I also wish to air my views on the number of people that persist in entering an area like this, whether it be the blood test or any area of hospital and medical centres, who have got hacking coughs, bad colds and other ailments that should be kept at home and treated there.

If they have any concerns about their wellbeing and health, they should simply dial 111 and get medical advice.

I also noted how dirty and unclean the seats and other areas were.

Does the NHS not believe in having the place kept clean?

And furthermore, to avoid such a waiting time to have blood samples taken the NHS should get more staff.

I do not know why they can’t put the blood test department in the community hospital. There is plenty of unused space there, plus the fact it would all be under one roof and the existing area could be used for extension to the maternity wards.

Kenneth Pallant

Church Lane, Bocking