I visited the GP at the Wallace Medical Centre Falkirk mid July regarding a large painful abscess on my breast. The doctor referred me to the breast clinic and advised I would receive a phone call in the next week for an appointment and if I didnt hear by that friday to contact them again. On the Friday I called the breast clinic directly and was informed I wasnt a priority and an appointment would be sent out in due course.
Around a week later I received an appointment in late august. I was so disheartened to have to wait another 4 weeks. My mum died aged 39 of breast cancer (diagnosed at 34. Im 31) so this is a real area of worry and concern for me. I suffer from panic attacks and anxiety so would be fair to say this affected that. I know how stretched the nhs is so didnt want to complain. I waited for my appointment and the date came around I was so relieved just to be "getting it over with" 2 hours before my appointment I received a phonecall to say the consultant was off sick so my appointment was cancelled and rearranged for september (another 2 week wait) iv spent the last hour crying. Iv anxiously awaited this day..arranged childcare, myself and partner have taken the day off work. My anxiety is now through the roof.
I tried contacting to make my GP aware that I still hadnt been seen but the reception staff are worse than useless always dismissive (when you can get through) the reception staff informed me they couldnt leave a message for a specific GP. There is over a week wait to speak to a gp on the phone and a 2 week wait to see a GP. I am at a loss..dont know where to turn. Im not a complainer but this isnt acceptable and is plain cruel to treat someone this way. Im currently looking at private health insurance as what little faith I had in the nhs is fast fading. I feel so insignificant...truly just a number.
"Referral delays to breast clinic"
About: Forth Valley Royal Hospital / General surgery Forth Valley Royal Hospital General surgery FK5 4WR General practices in Forth Valley General practices in Forth Valley
Posted by suzanne86 (as ),
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Update posted by suzanne86 (a service user) 5 years ago
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