"Telephoning Outpatient Appointments"

I have just been transferred on the phone to the DTC appointment department to arrange a new appointment. I have now given up listening to the ringing tone after 15 minutes. I had the same problem trying to get through to fracture clinic some months ago. We ended up driving the short distance to the clinic with my mobile still ringing. Got to the clinic and spoke to two very pleasant receptionists and the phone appeared not to be ringing on their system, yet when we spoke about it their system suddenly started ringing (in the room off reception) and a curt telephonist answered the call. I suspect she heard our comments! I wonder if the phone system had been on silent?? very frustrating. I work for the NHS and understand departments are under pressure but 15 minutes for the fracture clinic call and then I gave up after 15 minutes for DTC.