"X Ray Department"

Hi

I saw my GP from Elsenham Surgery yesterday (appointment at 3pm) and as a result, he requested detailed blood tests and numerous x-rays to diagnose a condition which has, so far been diagnosed as Fibromyalgia. I went straight to Herts and Essex Hospital X Ray department and registered at the out patient desk at 3.30pm. I saw the x ray receptionist and I was shortly called and asked to put on a gown and remove all of my piercings (this took some time). I was then seen by staff member who had the request in their hand and said that there was insufficient information from the GP to complete the xrays. In the first instance, I was angry as I had got changed, taken out the jewellery, as requested and was then told about the complication. I explained that I work long hours and rarely have a day off (due to previous sickness and absence from work due to my severe pain) and I asked if the GP could be contacted to provide more information. They returned after speaking to their supervisor who confirmed with them that the xrays would not be possible and that I had to return to my surgery to obtain a more detailed xray form. I explained that as the time was getting late and the journey back to the surgery would, not only be inconvenient and still inconclusive as to whether the xrays could still be done yesterday, I urged them to consider any other options - a fax or email from the GP giving them the information they requested and stressed the pain I had been experiencing (I was, at this point, close to tears). Their response was I am sure you are in alot of pain and have been for some months so a couple more weeks isn't going to make alot of difference for you to get the correct paperwork and return when you have another day off work. I was appalled at this response and feel it totally inappropriate for a member of your staff to treat a patient in this manner. I was then told that PAH xray does open out of the normal working Monday to Friday working hours, which may be easier to attend when I was able.

I took the decision to travel to PAH Harlow straight away, with the same form that my GP had given me and the xrays were completed without question. The radiographer did comment that the information was vague but asked me some questions about my questionable diagnosis and used this information to complete appropriate x rays.

I look forward to your comments on this matter and your response in ensuring that other patients will not endure the same level of service, empathy and understanding that I received at Herts and Essex Hospital yesterday.

Regards

Amie Gilman