I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in November 2013 and was recommended by my GP to attend a couple of 2 hour long educations sessions. The specialist doctor I had seen had also told me about these events and explained that they would tell me how to monitor and manage my condition.
I was given the number for the Devon Referral Support Service, each time I poned I was told I ‘would be hearing shortly’. In mid March I was told I was at the top of the list and should expect to be called for my first session in a week’s time. This did not happen.
I left it for a few weeks and called again on early May, this time I spoke to Sally Jackson, who informed me an appointment would be fixed.
I subsequently received a letter with an appointment only to receive another letter a few days later stating the appointment had been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. As the letter invited me to call for further information I did so. I was told the lady who ran the courses was employed on a contractual basis; she had broken her arm and was unable to run the events for the next 7 weeks.
Presumably I’m not the only patient in these circumstances?
Information in the media shows that diabetes is on the increase, so it seems odd that only one person can deliver a service with such a growing demand.
I tried to make another appointment for these events though a different contact number, when I explained my situation I was given to understand that it was important that people diagnosed with diabetes should ideally be seen within 18 weeks. Although they could not make an appointment for me the lady I spoke to advised me to go back to my GP and ask for an urgent referral.
"Difficulty in booking an appointment and long waiting times"
About: Devon Access and Referral Team (DART) Devon Access and Referral Team (DART) Exeter EX1 1PQ
Posted by Civil846 (as ),
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