Haematology consultant nominated for Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust’s Pride of Portsmouth Awards

A patient whose quality of care was improved by Dr Rob Ayto at Queen Alexandra Hospital has nominated the haematology consultant for the Patient Choice Award.

Dr Ayto’s nomination for this year’s Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust’s Pride of Portsmouth Awards came from his patient Julie Ingall, who appreciated the time he takes to reassure patients.

Julie said: ‘Dr Ayto is well known for going above and beyond for his patients and well respected by his staff. But in my experience this kind and compassionate professional goes unrewarded as he identifies this as part of his normal role.

‘After a very shocking routine scan result I was personally guided through the distressing lymphoma process by his ability to lead and communicate with his team. Although I cannot praise the haematology staff enough it was Dr Ayto who stood out beyond compare.’

Dr Ayto, 46, was very proud to receive his nomination after working as a haematology consultant since 2011.

He said: ‘It’s really nice because you hope you’re providing patient centric care. It makes it lovely that someone’s thought enough to write in and nominate you for an award.

‘I think what I love most is interacting with patients and championing their care.’

Julie said she has a long journey ahead, but feels reassured knowing she is under the care of Dr Ayto.

She added: ‘He was available to support me during a time when Covid meant that I was alone in the hospital and scared. Extra time was given to care for me physically and give me the psychological support I needed even if it meant running into his own time.

‘During my admission I spoke to his team who obviously see him as a role model and someone who is passionate about his area of expertise and happy to teach others.’

Dr Ayto, who gave particular mention to his colleagues Sam Darby and Sam Cowpe for their work, said: ‘I work with a fantastic team, we’re really blessed in Portsmouth that we have excellent colleagues in all the disciplines.’

For this year’s Patient’s Choice Award, readers can share their nominations by Tuesday, September 22, via a survey which can be filled out by clicking here.

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