"GP Referral for a scan Xray or Ultra sound?"

Newham Hospital, A+E.

Saw GP. He referred me for an urgent scan. Told me to go to the hospital to be scanned the next day. NB: Prevalence of cancer high in my family (mother and two uncles died my brother recently had prostate cancer removal.

Arrived, queued. Reasonable wait time. Saw a pleasant, efficient young man who looked at my document and Directed me to the x ray admin in area 8 of the hospital.

Got to area 8 at about 3. 30. Saw gates locked and a person leaving.

A man and his daughter were behind my son and myself. They said that x ray section opened Mon-Fri, closed now, but that I could come back the next morning (presumably to make an appointment)? I was confused and showed them the GP Urgent Request for X ray or ultrasound - this highlighted opening hours as 9-12 and 2-4. 30. IT WAS 3. 30!

They reiterated that we (the man with his child and myself) could return the next day(Sunday), at 9. 00am, and left.

I felt upset and angry and that they showed a total disregard for us as clients and that self interest leaving early appeared to be their priority, not delivering a service. I was in significant pain, but prioritised getting the scan to be clear on my situation.

I went back to Reception.

Then directed to a nurse who explained that there is an appointment system and that ultrasound was required. They kindly referred me to a doctor who would determine whether they would refer me for the scan that day.

The doctor kindly examined me and suggested I call the number on the form to make an appointment.

The next day, (Sunday), I called the number on the form, and was advised that I would need to come in to book an appointment, the system requires that!

I was beyond livid.. and, exasperated.

I then explained to the person that I did not have the time to keep running up and down to the hospital and that I could take a picture of the form and send it as evidence of my authenticity. She provided the email address. I am still waiting for an appointment - it is Wednesday.

I feel that if something is seriously wrong with me, and the GP and doctor have missed it, I am likely to die before receiving attention, or that the illness will progress.

Silo work approach, a lack of proactivity, complacency and lack of compassion and ownership are contributing to the low service rating of St, Barts Health.