THERE has been a great deal written and said about the move of Unity Health into their new medical centre at Kimberlow Hill, and rightly so.

The initial service provided was well below standards expected.

However, nothing has been said about the inside of the new building. The reception area is soulless, cold, impersonal and unfriendly - not the inviting place one would hope for when one is possibly not feeling one’s best.

There is not even a box for repeat prescriptions, neither is there a list of doctors, nursing staff or the name of the practice manager.

Even the receptionist on duty remains nameless behind her imposing desk.

There are only check-in screens and television screens, the latter on a loop recording a few hints on health and a call forward system when the doctor or nurse is ready for the patient. But as many patients have earphones on they don’t hear the call.

There are no pictures to brighten up the room or pamphlets on health issues. The latter I am told are obtainable online. This is fine for the younger element and students but what about the older residents, a number of whom do not have access to computers?

Come on, Unity Health, give the reception area a bit of character and friendliness.

William Welch,

Osbaldwick, York