"Appointment Difficultly"

I had a follow-up appointment at Rheumatology, Raigmore Hospital 

Firstly, the NHS website page showing an A-Z list of services does not include Rheumatology.

Secondly, there seems to be some administrative confusion in the appointments service. The doctor said he wanted to see me in 3 months time. I was to give the blue appointments form to the appointments desk in reception and get an appointment there and then. At length he explained that if he was on holiday at the time, the appointment would be cancelled, but a replacement appointment would not be automatic. So, in that event, I needed to contact his secretary.

Two things follow. The appointments desk said it was not possible to give an appointment so far in advance and a letter would be issued. Last time I had an appointment the 3 months deadline turned into 5 months. Secondly, I was not given any contact details for, say, a Rheumatology Help Desk or indeed the doctors secretary to follow this up. Previously when trying to contact Rheumatology I was passed onto the appointments service.

I was in so much pain previously, I considered attending A&E in desperation.