"Outpatient appointments constantly deferred at southport & Ormskirk hospitals"

I am diabetic and have liver function problems, my appointments for both these consultants are constantly being messed about.

The liver specialist asked for me to see him in 3 months, the appointment was made before I left the hospital, then within days of the appointment a letter came deferring it for another 3 months.

As that time got near it was again deferred by the hospital appointments system. Then I received a letter saying they had had to cancel my appointment and would be in touch, needless to say I never heard from them.

When a year since my last appointment was coming up and still no word from the hospital, I rang the consultants secretary and demanded an appointment.

When I went in to see the consultant they wished they seen me sooner. I explained the situation,of which they were unaware and appeared unhappy about.

The consultant said I must ensure this does not happen to my next appointment, and guess what I have already received a letter saying to improve their services they have cancelled my appointment and are not making appointments over six weeks.

Has anyone told the consultants as they always give 3 or six month referral visits, so it could be no one will get an appointment. In my opinion this will certainly make your appointments waiting list look good, but can we ensure that we all get the appointment we should have and will we get enough notice to get the blood tests done before the appointment as requested by the consultants.

This is also happening with my appointments to the Diabetic clinic. I have instructed my family to take all possible action if anything happens to me due to this new system as having health problems is bad enough without struggling to gain access to your consultant. A copy of this is being posted to the Trust at Ormskirk and Southport hospitals, watch this space to see If I even get an answer.