"Feel forced to go Private"

Went to GP as both my feet hurt

Got referred to a podiatrist who suspected "Mortons Neuroma(s)"

Then got referred to get ultrasound, who ruled out "Mortons Neuroma(s)"

Then got a report from the GP stating there was nothing more to do.

I wrote a letter to GP stating that's not good enough, as I'll need my feet for another 40 years.

I was then referred to join a waiting list in August 2014, to see a consultant, via the "NHS Appoint Request" web portal. It's Nov. 2014 and I'm still waiting to join the waiting list (I'm on a waiting list to join the waiting list).

I was contacted, on a Saturday afternoon a month or so ago, to be told I'm still on the waiting list to join the waiting list.

"Under the NHS Constitution, you have the right to start non-emergency, consultant-led treatment within 18 weeks from referral". So far it's 14 weeks, and counting, and I don't have an appointment.

Due to my discomfort, I looked into, and arranged a private consultation at the Nuffield in Cheltenham at £160 (my expense)earlier this month. The consultant told me I have a classic case of "Mortons Neuroma(s)" and preceded to advise on treatment. £660 for both feet to receive steroid injections.

I was told that If I go back into the NHS I would still have to wait the see the "same" consultant, that I'd just seen privately, to then have to wait up to 18 weeks to receive the same treatment that been advised.

If I go private and pay £660 they can fit me in within the month, at my convenience.

Not really a choice is it? ?