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consultant's hydrotherapy referral blocked

Posted By tired of NHS failings

"consultant's hydrotherapy referral blocked"

About: St John's Hospital

(as the patient),

14 months ago I was granted the whole of 4 hydrotherapy sessions by the NHS. The therapy was helping both my physical and mental health conditions immensely. I asked for at least the same amount of sessions as the others attending and was flatly refused by the physio.

3 physiotherapists, a psychiatrist, orthopaedic consultant, occupational therapist, social worker from AMHT, doctor and pain management consultant were made aware of this. The consultant that had arranged hydrotherapy sought this therapy be reinstated. An appointment was arranged to reinstate this and 24 hours later, another person from the same department telephoned to inform me she was not letting me have this!

I heard and agreed with what she was saying, unfortunately she was not willing to hear that she blocking a different consultants referral, that it is not NHS policy to treat only one of a patients conditions and that she was acting without all relevant information.

This is only one example of how this hospital has blocked, delayed or refused treatment referred by a consultant.

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Responses

Response from NHS Lothian 12 years ago
NHS Lothian

Submitted on 29/07/2011 at 13:45
Published on Care Opinion at 13:56

Dear "tired of NHS failings"

Thank you for getting in touch to let us know about your experience. We are concerned that you feel unhappy with the services provided by St Johns.

It is difficult for us to comment further or help without knowing the full details of your situation. In order to help us to continue to improve we would appreciate you making contact with us at the following email address lothian.communications@nhs.net.

Thanks again for taking the time to share your story.

Look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best wishes

NHS Lothian

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Update posted by tired of NHS failings (the patient)

I have received what I think is an unsatisfactory response from St John's which I believe is covering up the facts!

Response from NHS Lothian 12 years ago
NHS Lothian

Submitted on 09/09/2011 at 16:01
Published on Care Opinion at 16:02

Dear "tired of NHS failings"

Hydrotherapy is a valuable and useful resource which is occasionally requested across the NHS Lothian Board. While we always strive to meet the needs of our patients, we also have to operate within the resources available to us and prioritise these according to need. Inevitably, there will be times, despite our best efforts, when we are unable to meet all of the demands placed on the hydrotherapy service and a decision has to be made based on a careful clinical assessment. We fully understand that this will be disappointing. However, we will continue to monitor our referral systems and appreciate your feedback.

NHS Lothian

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