My Dad developed prostate cancer, also a black mole on his neck & was given a 12 week dermatology referral. I finally convinced him after 2 weeks to be seen privately. The biopsy came back melanoma, he was then referred to plastics for removal, still private. Unfortunately, due to cost, he needed a neck dissection under the NHS. This led to a referral to the Beatson. He had a lung scan in May, which showed lung nodules and a persistent cough & breathlessness led us to realise it had spread to lungs.
He attended the Beatson, where the consultant informed him that a repeat X-ray, which was organised anyway, of lungs would be done. Also assured him they would find out type of melanoma for treatment. Two weeks later a follow up appointment confirmed the lung spread. The consultant said they would need to refer to another consultant. When we asked when this would be, the consultant assured us immediately this week or next. In fact they picked up the office phone and left a message on a machine. However, the consultant then asked sarcastically if we'd like treatment now, as if it was such an unrealistic expectation. Furthermore, they had no results for melanoma type and no explanation why.
We left with no appointment, no follow up, no support. I phoned the consultant's secretary the next morning who was on annual leave. Another secretary checked and no follow up was made. I phoned again next day and was told the same and was informed an email would be sent to appropriate staff.
I contacted the complaints department who've informed me the appointment will be 2 weeks tomorrow-7. 5 weeks after urgent referral to the Beatson from plastics. Not as quick as we'd like due to the aggressive spread and still not sure when any treatment will start.
My dad is in his 60s, still works, loves watching his grandchildren grow up. I am a healthcare professional and I am fully aware the prognosis isn't good but I only want to know that treatments planned to improve and prolong his limited time left.
"Delay in appointments to treat my father's melanoma"
About: Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre Glasgow G12 0YN
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Update posted by More support (a relative) 9 years ago