King Charles was in Smethwick to officially open the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital.
“I’m sorry I didn’t get here a few months ago,” he said to staff, about when his planned visit had been postponed in March.
When he spoke to Mrs Page, she reminded him of a visit he had made to the Midlands in the 1970s – when he had flown a helicopter there.
The King said the passing of time was “terrifying”.
He also spoke to Matthew Shinda, who was receiving treatment for prostate cancer, and who told the King about his delays in getting a diagnosis.
“I’m very sorry about that, it’s so frustrating,” said the King, who has encouraged men to get checked, after he had been diagnosed and had a procedure for an enlarged prostate last year.
The King talked about advances in treatment, but empathised that for those currently needing help there was hope, but it could still be “down the road”.
The men joked about whether they could have a drink in hospital – when Mr Shinda’s daughter said her father “likes his malts”.
“Do they allow you a tiny dram of whisky occasionally?” asked the King. “I knew I should have brought one.”
He also claimed it was “supposed to be very good for the heart”.