"If it wasn't for my medical knowledge (plus the nice chap at FCMS), I'd be in renal failure"

Its was pretty bad really. Was admitted with renal colic, through FCMS (Fylde Coast Medical Services) out of hours. They were great, and were not taking no for an answer when I said I did not want to go in. Very well done Sir, if you are reading this.

Ended up on Ward 34, told no urology on call. The surgical doctor who saw me did his best bless him, but was very junior. I knew I needed an IVP, but got a KUB instead, and was discharged with antibiotics and analgesia. I did worsen in the night, phoned FCMS again, who referred me to Preston at my request. I did get an IVP there, and am under urology now at Wythenshawe Hospital. Thankfully I'm ok now, after some procedures at South Manchester.

Although I am a Consultant in the NHS, I did not expect any privileges. I'm appalled by the way surgical emergencies are dealt with at Blackpool. The one redeeming feature was he junior doctor who saw me, did admit his lack of knowledge, but said his Registrar and consultant were very busy.

Improvements clearly can be made, and I know that if it wasn't for my medical knowledge (plus the nice chap at FCMS), I'd be in renal failure or worse!