"NHS targets don't necessarily work"

I had been a patient of a consultant for 5 years, but after my last visit I was discharged as I was told it is now easy to arrange to see him. A few weeks later, owing to a rapid deterioration in my condition, I needed to see him urgently! I went to my GP, no easy task, and was referred immediately that day. A few weeks later, I was contacted by phone by the hospital and offered just one appointment, which was unsuitable. I was told I would have to go back to my GP to get re-referred, because I would not fit in the time scale! My condition had not improved nor had it changed.

I contacted my GP’s surgery who were mystified. They re-sent my original referral. I was contacted soon after, again by phone, but because I work abroad we were unable to find another mutually suitable date, and I was informed it had to be within a 5 week time span. It was apparent that I may never actually get to see a consultant!

I received no further contact from the hospital, and as a result I rang from France. I tried several times to be put through to the appointment department myself, but that was impossible, as the phone was never answered. Eventually I got to speak to a manager and it appears I don't fit in the box because I travel so much! When I am next in the UK, I have to ring to try and find a way through this mess without breaching the "target"! Not was easy to see a consultant as it appears, especially if you’re not in the right box!