"Very dismissive A&E Doctor"

I attended the A&E Department late in the evening with severe pain in my upper abdominal after being told to attend immediately by the 111 helpline.

I was seen by triage fairly promptly and gave full details of the pain and my symptoms.

Shortly thereafter, I was seen by a blood nurse who was incredibly compassionate and helpful.

They had been advised to put a line in my arm as they were told I might require further tests.

I then had a wait for around 2.5 hours before seeing the Doctor.

I explained my symptoms to them at which point they examined by abdomen.

They then told me that there was nothing wrong with me, despite a number of my blood results having abnormal results, including ALT/AST/GGT and White Cell Count.

They told me to make an appointment with my regular GP in the week.

I saw my regular GP the following day who was surprised I had been sent home without an ultrasound as my symptoms, together with the blood results, were highly indicative of cholecystitis and blockage of the bile duct.

Incidentally I was then referred back to Lewisham Hospital for an urgent ultrasound which I was told would take place within 2 weeks, only to have to wait 2 weeks just for the appointment letter, the actual scan taking place a further 2 weeks thereafter.

GP diagnosis confirmed, and I am now being referred for Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy, but have asked to be treated at another hospital as I have lost all trust in Lewisham.