Firstly I have to say I have always had good and efficient treatment from Royal Devon and Exeter (oncology mainly) and my GP.
For a different problem I have now have received notification from DART regarding making an appointment,I have not been told by my GP which specialist they wished me to see.
When I phoned the number given I was asked various questions and eventually told I was speaking to the orthopaedic department for North Devon (my address is Exmouth) and would be transferred.
After holding the line for many minutes I was told I was 1st in the queue and when I eventually spoke to someone I gave all my details again and was then told that they didn't deal with that and my call was again transferred.
I was once again told I was 1st in a queue. Gave all the details for a third time and was told they were busy at present and would phone me back, this did not happen that day.
Next morning I phoned again and was asked if I lived in North Devon. The person tried to be helpful and listened to all the details again (and yesterdays conversations) but again needed to transfer me - did I want to hold or be called back?, I opted to hold and was then 2nd in the queue.
When the call was answered I had to give all the details and the GP/medical practice etc and was then asked to hold while they checked which department I needed.
I was eventually offered an appointment at hospital of my choice (Not North Devon) and told I would receive further information in the post, so still do not know who I will see or exactly where.
All my previous appointments have been sent in one letter with a phone number if they were not suitable, how many more people and extra work/cost has been involved in this latest "improvement" in the service?
" Devon Access and Referral Team or not?"
About: Devon Access and Referral Team (DART) Devon Access and Referral Team (DART) Exeter EX1 1PQ Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital (Wonford) Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital (Wonford) Exeter EX2 5DW http://www.rdehospital.nhs.uk/
Posted by Tux (as ),
Responses
See more responses from Susan Pearce