"Long waiting lists"

I have severe hip arthritis in my right hip.  I am relatively young (in my mid 50's).  It has taken over three years just to see a consultant.  I saw someone in Musgrave park hospital Belfast.  They confirmed the diagnosis and recommended a full hip replacement.  My quality of life has deteriorated significantly since the initial diagnosis. 

The consultant informed me that the waiting list is over 8 years.  This just cant be possible.  They also made a comment about the NHS being broken.  Some people can go privately (which in principle I don't agree with but understand their desperation).  Some go across the border, however this is also extremely expensive.  For people like myself this is not an option.

I'm very saddened and disheartened that there seems to be an acceptance of this unacceptably long waiting list.  I just do not know what I'm going to do.