"Complete lack of follow up"

I was referred to BGH emergency surgical ward by my (excellent) GP early this year, following bouts of severe abdominal pain, as I had a history of colonic polyps. My GP recommended an MRI scan and a colonoscopy.

I received excellent care from the staff on Ward 7, and following an MRI scan, was diagnosed with a large kidney stone, which was stuck in the right junction, causing me a great deal of pain.

This was treated with a Lithotripsy treatment at the WGH a few weeks later. The Lithotripsy treatment was extremely painful for me, and the staff administered additional pain relief, although this had no impact. I was discharged quickly, with no medication, and given an appointment at BGH for a follow up X ray 4 weeks later, which I attended. I was told that Urology would contact me within 2-3 weeks if I needed additional Lithotripsy.

By the summer, I was still experiencing abdominal pain and intermittent blood in my urine.

My GP tried twice to refer me back to Urology at BGH, the first time received no response but could see that no one had looked at the follow up X ray, the second time was told that I should have attended a 'follow up appointment'.When my GP enquired as to why neither they nor I had received notification of any type of follow up appointment, it was acknowledged that one had not been arranged. I was given the telephone number of the consultant's admin team and told to ring them.

I have spoken with the admin staff every few days to try and ascertain progress, and am continually fobbed off, being promised written communication or phone calls which never materialise. To date I have had an ultrasound scan (which they told me to arrange myself) and blood tests (I still have not had any results or discussion). Last time I rang, I was informed that the consultant was now on annual leave, and to ring back the following week. It is now August, and all I have are some very strong painkillers prescribed by my GP, and verbal instructions to go to A & E if my condition deteriorates. I am aware how much pressure A & E teams are under, and this is hardly a solution to a lack of patient care by the Urology department.

As a public servant myself, I have always been a great defender of the NHS, and other members of my family have had excellent care in other NHS trusts for serious illnesses. However, the lack of care from NHS Borders/Lothian in my case is absolutely shameful. I feel completely abandoned by the NHS and really do not know where else to turn.