IELTS HUB
Formal Complaint Letter #197
GT Writing Task 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You went to the local hospital’s Emergency Department with your young child who had severe stomach pains. You had to wait for almost four hours before your daughter was treated by a doctor and, while you were waiting, you were constantly ignored by the other staff.

Write a letter to the Hospital Registrar, complaining about the service you received:

  • Describe the situation and your experience
  • Explain why you are dissatisfied with the service
  • Suggest what you would like the hospital to do to address the issue

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses at the top of your letter.

Begin your letter as follows: Dear ……………,

One box per bullet, then compare with Band 9.
264 words · 3 body paragraphs
Opening

I am writing to express my deep dissatisfaction with the service my daughter and I received at the Emergency Department of your hospital recently.

Bullet 1

Describe the situation and your experience

Upon arriving with my young child who was in severe pain, we had to endure an agonizing wait of nearly four hours before she was finally seen by a doctor. Throughout this time, the staff seemed indifferent to our distress, offering no updates or assistance despite the visible discomfort my daughter was in. This lack of attention and care only added to our anxiety and frustration.

Bullet 2

Explain why you are dissatisfied with the service

The dismissive attitude of the staff towards us during such a critical situation was extremely disappointing. As a parent, seeing my child in pain and feeling helpless is already distressing, but to be ignored and neglected by the very people who are supposed to provide care and support is unacceptable. It is essential for a hospital, especially in the Emergency Department, to prioritize prompt and compassionate care for patients in need.

Bullet 3

Suggest what you would like the hospital to do to address the issue

I urge the hospital to review its procedures and staffing levels in the Emergency Department to ensure that patients, especially children, are attended to in a timely and empathetic manner. Training sessions on patient communication and empathy could also be beneficial for the staff to enhance their interactions with worried parents and suffering children. Additionally, implementing a system for regular updates on wait times and patient status can help alleviate anxiety and improve overall patient experience.

Closing

I trust that you will take my feedback seriously and take necessary steps to prevent such distressing experiences for other patients and their families in the future.

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