"NHS Gynae/Oncology Dept"

I was impressed by the high level of care I received over a 6 months period, while an outpatient at the Royal London Gynae/Oncology Department.  I was looked after by Eleanor and two of her consultants plus the head sister Deborah.  After the final scans were reviewed I was relieved to hear that no cancers are present.  After the initial scans and exam at the end of 2019, things looked clear, but a second scan was ordered for January.  I am very grateful for the comprehensive care, thank you!

When I received the appointment reminder text 2 days before my final appointment this week, they reminded me that 'not attending costs the NHS £160.  I would like to say two things about this.  I think it's a brilliant idea to make us aware of this fact!  But also it made me think of the financial cost AND the cost of the consultants time.  I waited an hour for the appointment which reflects that oncology departments are unique in that they need to have TIME with their patients beyond the usual 10-20 minute routine GP appointment!  

Therefore, as I sat there, and heard that all was well, I felt terribly guilty for taking up the consultants valuable time, not to mention costing the NHS £160 for the appointment!  Because my result was a second 'all clear', could this not have been done via a telephone consultation or letter, this saving the NHS £160 and the consultant's time?  

By the way, it was not the consultant who made me feel guilty, he was all kindness and graciousness, it was my own evaluation of the situation.  So I decided to write to you, by way of a THANK YOU to Eleanor and her team at the Royal London, but also w/ a suggestion, that perhaps those of us who don't 'need' an appt per see, to be told that all is well, could be well served by a call or letter, thereby saving the NHS time and money.

Kind regards,