"NHS at its best"

In early December 2019, a small lesion appeared on my forehead which I suspected might be an actinic keratosis based on previous experience.

However, I did not seek medical help as I had a severe respiratory infection and did not wish to infect anyone at Crossgates Medical Practice.

After fully recovering, I contacted my doctor at the end of December 2019 and was delighted to be accommodated that day. The consultation with Dr Downie was, as always, very positive and my case was referred to the Dermatology Unit at Queen Margaret Hospital Dunfermline with the expectation that I would be seen some time towards the middle of January due to the New Year holidays.

However, the same afternoon, I was telephoned by a pleasant lady from NHS Fife central who arranged that I be seen by Dr Matthews, Consultant Dermatologist, on the Friday, immediately after the clinics reopened. During the appointment the actinic keratosis diagnosis was confirmed, promptly treated with liquid nitrogen and general advice provided about trying to avoid future similar  eruptions which I will be prone to.

In summary, this was the NHS at its best and typifies the excellent service that my wife and I have consistently received from Crossgates Medical Practice and Queen Margaret Hospital. I would conclude by putting on record how much this is appreciated, especially during these dark days of the COVID-19 pandemic.