"I have suffered psoriasis for ..."

What I liked

I have suffered psoriasis for the past 29 years. At this hospital for the first time I was assessed holistically. My full history was taken, and I was listened to, as an intelligent human being. My first consultation was quite unlike any I've experienced with either GPs or standard NHS dermatologists. I wasn't palmed off with expensive, skin-damaging steroids or topical drugs, which is what medical professionals tend to favour. For the first time, a medical prof was trying to get to the root of my problem, not just treat the disease topically. I was put on a course of vitamins and on their autogenics course, where I was taught vital relaxation techniques, which have had a visible impact on my immune system (and in turn on my skin). Suspecting a link between a gluten intolerance and my psoriasis, I went on a gluten-free diet with the RLH's support, and my psoriasis has since cleared completely. A year on from my first appointment, for the first time in three decades, I am free of my psoriasis - thank you RLH for giving me my life back, for treating me humanely, not just like a number to be prescribed drugs from a book.

What could be improved

Not one thing. Carry on doing what you do so brilliantly, LISTENING to the patient. This is what no GP or standard NHS consultant dermatologist has ever done for me, despite the fact that I probably understand more about my psoriasis than they ever will.

The Royal London Homeopathic Hospital is a vital alternative voice within the drugs-focused NHS. Drug-biased treatment IS NOT suitable for multi-factorial diseases such as psoriasis.