I have been seen in the Pain Unit at Kings twice over the last 3 months, due to acute thoracic pain. I was seen last week by a Consultant there. My appt was at 9.30am and I was seen at 11.30am. There are not enough seats for patients and carers to be seated in the waiting room (in a pain clinic!). When I was seen the doctor didn't close the door to the consultation room or that corridor, subsequently all the patients etc waiting heard all of my consultation.
During the consultation I mentioned I had been off work for the last 2 months, and am keen to return (I have several serious medical issues at the moment). The doctor asked me what I did, to which I replied I am a University academic. They dismissed this with a grunt, and said in a loud voice "you'll find yourself on job seekers allowance" in, what I felt was, an extremely patronising way and advised me to "get back to work".
I am astounded at their arrogance, apparent lack of concern for confidentiality - and downright rudeness and inappropriate behaviour towards me during the consultation. For someone who claims to understand chronic pain I think making such statements is can be harmful - self esteem and mood are clearly important in managing chronic pain - and this wasn't understood during my consultation.
"Astounded at the rudeness shown by the consultant"
About: King's College Hospital (Denmark Hill) / Pain Management King's College Hospital (Denmark Hill) Pain Management SE5 9RS
Posted by Mokum (as ),
Do you have a similar story to tell?
Tell your story & make a difference ››