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Canceled appointment

Story from nhs.uk

"Canceled appointment"

About: St Richard's Hospital

My appointment with the doctor on the 24th March was canceled with no follow on appointment.

I phoned today and was told "Rheumatology is an over subscribed service" The next appointment is the 15th September 2016 ,this would mean a year in between appointments.

I cant believe a hospital of this size has just one Rheumatologist working . Cant they get a locum doctor to run the clinics??? My only hope is that he will allow a clinic to be over booked, not ideal but its better than waiting 6 months.

I have Fibromyalgia and Osteoarthritis ,i have had to to stop my anti inflammatory tablets as they were giving me Acid Reflux . I only said to my GP on Friday "its alright i see the consultant in 2 weeks " ,famous last words.

I now face the next 6 months in pain day and night.

I now wish that BUPA had taken over the contract as they might have had more than one Rheumatologist on the books .

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Responses

Response from St Richard's Hospital 8 years ago
St Richard's Hospital

Submitted on 08/04/2016 at 11:04
Published on nhs.uk on 09/04/2016 at 02:31

Thank you for this feedback. We are very sorry that your experience has not been up to your expectation and that your appointment had been cancelled. We have five rheumatology specialists on the St Richard's site so for the clinic to be cancelled there must have been some exceptional circumstances. As this site is anonymous (unless patients choose to leave details) it is difficult for us to investigate why things have not been as good as they should be, and have the opportunity to respond to you. You could do this yourself if you wish, by calling the main switchboard at St Richard’s on 01243 788122 and asking to speak to the rheumatology department. Alternatively, you could contact the PALS office (Patient Advise and Liaison Service) on 01243 831822 or email them at PALSChichester@wsht.nhs.uk and they will be happy to help you with this.

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