The Irish should take pride in their caring and kindly health system

In early September, I returned to Ireland to visit my 84-year-old father, who had been admitted to Cork University Hospital, with a stroke due to an infection.

For the past 20 years I have lived in Cambodia, where I have been exposed to a different healthcare system. I was so impressed with the care that my father received, while he was in hospital for two weeks, and the care that he received and continues to receive on discharge, that I determined, on my return to Cambodia, to write to you.

The doctors and the medical team did everything possible to diagnose and treat my father. He received excellent care from the nurses, assistants and all the staff of Ward 4C. I continued to be impressed when my father was discharged. Within days, the public health nurse had organised carers for both my parents. The GP and staff at Tower Medical Centre, and the staff at Tower Pharmacy, were so kind to me as we sorted out changes to medicines and blister packs. The home-help co-ordinator, and the ladies who come in daily to help my parents, are so kind.

Nothing was, or is, a bother and everything was, and is, done with great kindness and respect for my elderly parents.

My friends in Cambodia were astounded to hear that my father received all the above care for free. Here, unless you have money and family to look after you, the elderly receive no medical care. A year or two ago, my friend’s grandfather had a stroke and died at home, as the family had no money to send him to hospital.

I often hear negative comments about the Irish health system. I know that all is not perfect back home, but I would like to give praise where praise is due.

The care that my father received, and continues to receive, is impressive.

I would like to thank all who helped, and continue to help, my parents.

Brenda Au

P.O. Box 2583

Phnom Penh

Cambodia