I REALISE this letter comes too late to have any effect on the “accountant” decision to partially close Orpington Treatment Centre but I feel that, even at this late stage, the more people who register their feelings and exercise their right under a democracy to be heard, the better.

The treatment centre is efficient, clean and patient-friendly.

All the staff are dedicated and there for the benefit of patients.

An example of this latter point is highlighted by my own experience.

I was referred to a dermatologist and an appointment was made for 10.10am on a Monday. Some weeks later I had a separate appointment with a different department made for 2.10pm on the same Monday for a pre-operation examination.

I attended the morning appointment and as I was leaving I was called back.

The receptionist said the department for my afternoon appointment had noticed my earlier appointment and asked the receptionist to stop me as I left and suggest I go straight to the afternoon appointment as they thought it would be more convenient for me.

Somebody, somewhere had used their initiative and thought about patient welfare. I am 72 and this thought meant a great deal to me.

At Orpington Treatment Centre patients count and are not seen as a hindrance to the efficient running of the hospital.

AJH Davison, Meadow Way, Orpington