"Excessive delay in access to diagnostic imaging"

Last year I was referred by my GP for an urgent ultrasound after they identified a protruding uterus during an internal examination. Given the seriousness of the findings, they marked the referral urgent. However, after hearing nothing for several months and facing uncertainty about the timeline for receiving a scan—let alone any subsequent referral to a gynaecologist—I felt I had no choice but to pursue private care.

Through private healthcare, I was able to access an ultrasound promptly, which revealed uterine abnormalities. I was then seen privately by a gynaecologist and underwent surgery to remove a benign tumour, had my urethra stretched due to narrowing, and had a coil fitted. In addition, chronic inflammation was identified in my bladder and confirmed through biopsy, leading to a six-month course of antibiotics which I am currently undergoing. I am now finally recovering and regaining quality of life.

I recently received the original NHS Highland radiology appointment—over six months after my GP’s referral. I have cancelled this appointment, as I have already received the necessary care privately. However, the delay in accessing initial diagnostic imaging through the NHS is deeply concerning. I am left wondering how much longer I would have waited for the scan, and whether there would have been any direct follow-up or referral to a gynaecologist, or whether it would have been left to my GP to re-refer me, thus prolonging the delay even further.

This experience has been extremely distressing. I feel badly let down by the NHS system and am concerned for other patients who may not have the means to seek private care, yet are in equally urgent need of attention.