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Dr Dimitra Metheniti

Paediatrician

I am writing to provide feedback following the recent online ADHD assessment regarding my son, Kaiyan. This feedback is offered constructively, with the intention of supporting shared understanding and ensuring the final report reflects the full context. This appointment was attended at a point of significant exhaustion. As a parent of a child with complex needs, substantial time, emotional energy, and personal resources have been invested over many years in seeking understanding, assessment, and appropriate support. The intention in attending this assessment was to gain clarity, guidance, and support during an increasingly difficult period. While there was calm engagement with Kaiyan and some review of history, the overall experience did not feel sufficiently grounded in the full developmental, medical, and contextual picture. Key aspects of the urgency of the referral, the cumulative impact on family functioning, and the extent of previous attempts to seek help did not appear to be fully explored. It was helpful that leg pain, dyspraxia, and a whole-child perspective were considered; however, these observations would have benefited from fuller integration of existing history and context. Discussion surrounding ADHD diagnosis and medication occurred without clear acknowledgement of the prolonged and often challenging efforts already undertaken to access support. This was particularly difficult, as it was experienced as implying that the pursuit of assessment was primarily medication-focused, rather than reflecting the reality of the situation or the breadth of concerns relating to anxiety, phobias, demand avoidance, and overall functioning. It was upsetting to hear that the low school ADHD rating was considered to limit evidence across two settings. When increased conflict between Kaiyan and his father was mentioned, the subsequent focus on punishment and physical discipline—while recognised as part of standard ADHD enquiry—was experienced as misaligned with the context in which the information was shared. The tone of this line of questioning felt difficult, particularly given the absence of any safeguarding concerns, and contributed to a sense that parental actions were being scrutinised rather than the child’s needs being explored. This experience was reminiscent of previous NHS interactions in which parental concern has been perceived as problematic rather than contextualised, including prior paediatric consultations relating to leg pain where concerns were minimised. It is also important to note that Kaiyan’s father is highly involved in his care and daily regulation needs, including carefully preparing routines such as ensuring his lunchbox is appropriately organised. During the appointment, there was limited opportunity to convey the extent of prior investigations relating to leg pain, vitamin D, dyspraxia (which has been explored and ruled out), and possible hypermobility, despite extensive engagement with GP, NHS, orthopaedic, and specialist services. Greater exploratory questioning and integration of existing reports may have supported a more complete understanding of this history. Overall, the assessment appeared to move relatively quickly towards formulation and advice-giving. For a parent already experiencing significant fatigue and pressure, this approach felt misaligned with the need for collaborative exploration and validation of lived experience. Rather than feeling supported or guided, the interaction was experienced as judgement, which contributed to feelings of inadequacy at a time when reassurance and clarity were being sought. The cumulative developmental history, current level of impact, and constraints faced by the family did not appear to be fully reflected within the appointment. The experience was consistent with interactions where parental concerns and lived expertise are positioned as secondary to professional formulation, rather than integrated as essential clinical information. Thank you for taking the time to consider this feedback.

Cleveland Clinic Moorgate Outpatient Centre

Imaging (Scans), Cardiology, + 8 more

Asked to be 15 mins early for scan, but then not called until 30 mins or so after time of appointment without any prior indication of running late (perhaps because it was at 6pm ). Head scanner was still busy so junior radiologer kindly chatted to me for 15 mins after I'd changed to kill time. Having been told it would take 15 mins, scan took about 45 mins and team forgot to talk to me or put music on despite me saying I was a bit claustrophic (but can get by ok). Then at 8pm, no doubt in rush to scan next person, they didn't remove cannula so i wandered around to find another staff member to do that who happily obliged. Not a major problem but not up to Cleveland usual standards. Staff were all very friendly though, but perhaps clinic shouldn't book in patients at end of day if they can't really handle them properly.

Mr Chaminda Sellahewa

General Surgeon

Mr Sellahewa was courteous and professional but the system was neither helpful to him nor to me. I had attended for a check on my completed inguinal hernia surgery, but his on-screen data suggested that I had come for an assessment for yet another. I had had your consultants’ surgery at that juncture for two inguinal repairs - I had no more to fix. It would have saved me a round trip of over an hour at night (I am a competent driver, at 79 yrs old ) and his time, had I been referred to my local GP or surgery nurse for this assessment; if she had spotted abnormalities she would have referred me back to your consultant. This attendance has been an avoidable waste of time and costs for both parties.

Infiniti Healthcare

Cosmetic (Aesthetic) Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynaecology

The arrangements for my appointment were clear and I was able to park easily. The waiting area was clean and comfortable and staff at every level were kind, helpful and polite. Mr. Bahl has helped me so much to overcome a problem which was severely impacting upon my life and reducing my confidence for social contact. He has been very clear about all issues and risks so that, when I underwent surgery, I was clear about what outcome I might experience. The plan for going forward is clear and, at every turn, I have received information which has helped me to feel a full participant in my treatment plan. Words cannot express my gratitude for the outcome.

Miss Sascha Dua

General Surgeon

Miss Sascha Dua is a great professional—respectful, knowledgeable, and caring. I was very scared to be in a breast cancer unit for the very first time, but she was wonderful at breaking the ice and making me feel comfortable. She was attentive and taught me how to properly perform self-examinations, which made me realise I had always been doing them incorrectly. Her team is also amazing and very caring. They sent me letters in advance introducing the team and explaining in detail how the process works, which was incredibly helpful. My husband and I were very happy with the whole process. I truly wish all doctors’ appointments were this supportive.

The Harborne Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare UK

Cardiology, Gastroenterology, + 10 more

The imaging team — particularly R. Wilson and L. Kuriakose — were outstanding. Their efficiency, professionalism, and the way they worked with me throughout the treatment were superb. In contrast, communication from the reception team was limited. There was little information provided regarding waiting times or updates, and my next of kin were not kept informed about what was happening or how long the process might take. This created unnecessary uncertainty during an already stressful time. Parking was also extremely challenging, to the point where travelling by train would likely have been easier.

Cromwell Hospital

Allergy Medicine, Audiology, + 17 more

Dr. Bismeen Jadoon was absolutely exceptional. She demonstrated the highest level of professionalism, clinical knowledge, and adherence to best practice standards throughout my appointment. What truly distinguished her was her empathy and ability to genuinely understand my situation. She took the time to explain the treatment clearly, thoroughly, and with great care, ensuring I felt informed and reassured at every stage. I left the appointment feeling confident, supported, and extremely well cared for. I sincerely wish healthcare systems were consistently supported by professionals of this calibre.

Spire Manchester Hospital

Orthopaedic Surgery, Ear Nose & Throat Surgery (ENT/Otolaryngology), + 11 more

All staff were very efficient and attentive. There were two areas of concern. The cocktail of pain killers was not fully explained to me and I was severely sick both in hospital and at home on my release day, Saturday December 6th. My wife at 2000hrs rang the ward from home and was able to travel to the hospital collect an anti nausea prescription, this at 21.30. Jasmine (ward 1) and Sophie(ward 2) were brilliant. In addition, having been told at 1.30 I could go home my wife and I eventually left at approximately 4.30. Surprisingly there was only one porter on duty on the Saturday afternoon.

Pure Sports Medicine - Moorgate

Nutrition, Osteopathy, + 4 more

I'd laboured under my shoulder injury for 6 months, and Chris was able to achieve vast improvements in comfort and ability within weeks. Chris was impressively professional and meticulous, a pleasure to visit and I always felt willing to go the extra mile to explain the process to me and make detailed recommendations. This has really brought about a transformation in my quality of life, and I'm delighted to be back doing the things I love. Almost two months after first visiting the clinic, I am fully recovered- absolutely game-changing, could not recommend enough.

Mr David O'Reilly

General Surgeon

At my recent visit, I felt very looked after, made totally at ease and comfortable. My surgeon Mr David O’Reilly was absolutely brilliant talked me through everything what could happen, the procedure and didn’t leave no details out which made me calm and confident I was in safe hands. My surgeon came to see me before the operation checked I was ok and also came to see me after the operation which I was very grateful for as he talked me through everything that he had done. I would 100% recommend him to anyone needing the surgery I had done.

Wellness in Motion Physio Therapy Chislehurst

Physiotherapy

I can’t recommend this clinic enough. Anjila Rokaya is an excellent physiotherapist and truly made all the difference for me…I’ve had so much improvement in my shoulder pain since starting treatment. She was professional, knowledgeable, and really supportive throughout. Also a huge thank you to Kelly for being so helpful with my booking.. she called me back quickly and gave me clear information about my insurance invoice and everything I needed. Brilliant service all round. Absolutely love them 🥰

Mr Shantanu Gudsoorkar

Ophthalmologist

My husband recently had cataract surgeries under the care of Mr Gudsoorkar . He has dementia and a lot of other medical issues . Mr Gudsoorkar was very kind and accomodated all our requests for dates and times for surgery. He spent a lot of time explaining the procedure despite my husband's poor memory .He personally called up after each procedure to check he was ok .The surgeries have made a huge difference and have vastly improved his vision . He is much happier man enjoying his telly !

Mr Shobhit Verma

Orthopaedic Surgeon, Paediatric Surgeon

Absolutely Outstanding” Mr Verma and his amazing secretary, went above and beyond to care for my son. Having been to A&E on a few occasions with multiple knee injuries due to football and consultants not being able to identify the underlining reasons we sought private help. Mr Verma was really thorough diagnosing the problem, explaining the treatment and he was available to talk too throughout the whole process. We would highly recommend him. He is extremely knowledgeable, and he cares.

Dr. Rick Adams

Psychiatrist

We recently referred a client with an acquired brain injury who was displaying episodes of anger incorporating challenging behaviour. Dr Rick Adams was easy to talk to and he quickly and accurately grasped the situation and recommended suitable treatment. Because of distance we opted for a video consultation which worked very well. The whole experience was excellent and I have no hesitation in recommending him.

Mr Simon Cabot

Physiotherapist

Simon was tremendously helpful in sorting out a knee issue I had as a result of a historical ACL tear. He prescribed a straight forward set of exercises and a reassurance that got me back to full mobility and regular exercise quickly. This was particularly important as I was in the middle of a 5 month world tour with a band involving considerable travel.

Chase Lodge Hospital

Cardiology, Dentistry, + 7 more

We visited on a sunday and waited no more than 10 minutes. The doctor was absolutely incredible with my 2 year old and very thorough. He prescribed the medication and it was made up there and then. What an absolutely fantastic place. Highly recommend.