So, yeah, yesterday morning I had an appointment with the knee surgeon - sorted out by my private cover. Things noticeable at the private hospital: the building itself is just much nicer than an NHS place. Also, the nurses don't look so tired and depressed - and they seem fitter. Some of the radiographers are pretty fit too.

The main thing to notice is that, if you are used to the NHS, the speed at which everything happens is quite frightening. Arrive, sign disclaimer, see consultant, get X ray, see consultant again and out in the space of 60 minutes. This idea of spending longer with the doctor than in the waiting room is ... interesting.

Also, the car park is free. At my local NHS hospital, you get done for £3 even to drop off a referral form.

Anyhow, after consultation the doc can do the operation (arthroscopy) next Thursday. I've never had a general anaesthetic before so slightly nervous. The downside is that I wont be able to make either LHuSi beers or Ricky Gervais (on Saturday).

Anyone want to buy a Ricky Gervais ticket? Hammersmith Apollo, Saturday.

Of course, this being private, I have to get confirmation from my insurer that the procedure is actually covered, otherwise I get landed with a huge bill.

Of course, a lot of private work is done in NHS hospitals using NHS trained staff and NHS equipment so getting an actual private hospital is a bit rare.

For USians: if I stayed within the NHS, yes I would get the procedure done (probably by the same surgeon) but I'd have to wait a few months and the hospital wouldn't be as nice. Probably the nurses wouldn't be as nice either. The NHS is good at the life-saving stuff, but the "bit of a dodgy knee" type conditions are, understandably, given lower priority.

BTW: LCC provides its employees of all grades with private medical cover, not just "senior" people (like Crap Corp did).

In other news, saw Andy Parsons last night at the theatre (spare ticket going at the last minute). If, like me, you dno't find him that funny on Mock the Week, then you'll not find him that funny live. If you do find him funny on Mock the Week, then you'll have heard all the material before.