"Actinic Keratosis"

I have been bothered by an actinic keratosis on my shoulder for three or four months now. The keratin (the hard bit on the outside) has been growing to the size of a broad bean and it has bled on three occasions when it has been knocked. Although a relatively minor condition, it has become increasingly distressing.

I was relieved that my referral date had finally arrived and every aspect of the care I received was excellent.

The appointment was at 9. 30 on a Saturday morning. I do not think doctors should have to work on Saturdays as most of them are overworked. I do hope this doctor is on a rota and gets some Saturdays off along with the nurses and other hospital staff. For me personally, it meant that my husband (who works during the week) could accompany me. It must mean a great deal to many workers to have Saturday appointments.

I arrived shortly before 9. 30, signed in on the machine and waited only a few moments before a smiling nurse called my name and indicated the doctor. They both showed me to the room. Dr Hill pointed out that my condition was an actinic keratosis not a dermatafibroma as indicated by the locum at my GP's surgery who referred me. He was able to quickly and painlessly remove the extraneous material hanging from my shoulder and to reassure me that the core would be removed at a further appointment.

It was remarkable that I was in and out within fifteen minutes and so did not have to pay any car parking fees. The removal of the external growth has made my day-to-day life much easier and I am very grateful to the doctor concerned. The doctor's knowledge a reassurance was very good.