I should start by saying I have Addisons disease (secondary - my Pituitary gland is up the creek) and I am dependant on hydrocortisone dripped into me via a cannula for life. Signs of a 'crisis' - when I suddenly become low on cortisol are sight loss/numb face/droopy eye and this is happening often. My GP thought it prudent I visit an Optician (I did - she recommended I saw a Neurologist) and referred me to Neurology at East Surrey Hospital. After the covid-19 thing put everything on hold I was finally offered a video appointment with a Neurologist yesterday at 9am (over 3 months since my referral). After being 'checked in' I waited....and waited...and waited... for 25 minutes...on hold...until a conversation that sounded something like this:
"sorry...the Neurosurgeon looked at your notes and says you need to see an Ophthalmologist - your issue isn't his department"...
"Oh, but my GP and optician said Neurology needed to see me"
"Nope. No. He doesn't need to consult with you."
"but...but I have waited ages for this. I lose sight in my eye. My face goes numb and my eye droops I am a bit desperate - will he not just have a quick word? (*cue me getting all choked up)"
"No."
..."oh...err....OK. I will wait for the Ophthalmology call then"
5 mins later - phone rings -
"Hello - this is the Neurologists secretary - you need to change to an Ophthalmology video consult, yes?"
...I give symptoms again...
'Oh dear. That is certainly a Neurological issue. Yes you need to see a Neurologist...'
'Yes, yes I know..."
"I will try and sort this out - i'll call you back"
....still not been called back.
"Appointment mess ups"
About: East Surrey Hospital / Neurology East Surrey Hospital Neurology RH1 5RH
Posted by art1969 (as ),
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