"Unacceptable 19 month wait"

I am very disappointed with the way I have been treated by the Consultants at the Calderdale Royal.

I was referred by my GP at the beginning of 2009 for bad neck pain and carpal tunnel syndrome.

An MRI of my neck showed considerable degeneration of the discs, bone spurs and some trapped nerves. I was told by the orthapaedic Consultant that I was to be discussed with spine doctors. They decided that I needed to see a neurologist

I was told by the neurologist I could not have the usual med treatment because of medical reasons and I was referred to a pain specialist who was the rudest doctor I have ever met. They upset me in the most insensitive and patronising way and without any examination told me to go and get on with my life because there is nothing wrong with my neck. I was in considerable pain at the time and I was mortified by their treatment.

I complained to PALS. Which in my opinion was a complete waste of time. I felt like they basically told me that It was tough and if I didn't like it I should go to a different hospital.

The pain and symptoms worsened and I was sent for another MRI which showed more trapped nerves, The bone spurs were big and there was pain in my arms. I have been expecting to hear what the findings of the MRI would mean in treatment terms and the neurologist told me if it was the same or worse than the first scan then I would be referred for a neurosurgical opinion. This was in March 10 and I have been waiting since then to know what is going on with my neck and if I will be referred to a surgeon.

I find it very unacceptable that I should have to wait 19 months for diagnosis and treatment of a painful and worrying condition especially when the initial findings seemed to worry the doctors and there was a quick referral to neurology. I have waited and worried about my condition. I found out today that they are saying there is no change in the MRI which is not the case as I have the reports here and my GP told me it has progressed. I will be seeking a second opinion as I cannot stand it any longer.