Sir, - During my five-month stay in Dublin I have read so many stories in The Irish Times about the deficiencies of medical care in Ireland that I feel it important to report my own totally positive experience.
A few weeks ago a massive dental infection required emergency surgery that kept me in St James's Hospital for almost four weeks, including five days in intensive care. Never have I received or observed better nursing care. It was always warm, personal and cheerful when appropriate. I marvelled at the nurses' skill in creating cameraderie among my ward mates. This was more effective than any psychological counselling could have been.
As a film-maker for many American medical institutions of note, I have had opportunities to observe many hospitals in action. Never have I seen the quality of care I received at St James's. Was I privileged? Was I receiving care not available to the public at large? I have no means of knowing this. My ward mates were all clearly what was once referred to as "working class."
I do know this. When I go back to my home in New York city I will have one more explanation to family and friends of why I have come to admire this country so much. - Yours, etc.,
George C. Stoney, (Prof of Film/TV, New York University,) Waterloo Road, Dublin 4.