"Pathology"

I feel compelled to submit a review which will also be sent to the Commissioners to contrast and compare between the Countess and the Care received from another neighbouring Trust as there is no comparison. I was advised due to complications of surgery that I would need to avoid having blood withdrawn from both of my arms. I was informed by another

Trust (not Countess) they unable to facilitate the request made by both my GP and Clatterbridge despite the request being urgent as I required chemo. I challenged the decision and lack of policy and was advised NICE guidance supported the Trust within their decision making not to accommodate. Firstly "guidance" is what it is and there is clearly no evidence to support the decision making /conclusion. Clatterbridge have been very supportive and helped challenge the decision made by the other Trust concerned.

My care was being improvised as a result based on the fact my disease is not visible. An elment of my care has been transferred to the Countess as a consequence.

I was apprehensive when I required bloods although the

Phlebotomist at COCH reassured me that my request was not unusual and was able to take the blood from my hand and not my arms. I had to explain in detail in order for you to appreciate from a patient perspective the difference between one Trust to another. Fortunately NHSE, Secondary Care Commisionners , Oncology Team (Clatterbridge) and my GP currently challenging the other Trust concerned as no alternative solution had been provided despite requiring bloods regularly. At least Countess designs services to accommodate patients. Much obliged and thankful to the Phlebotomist who met my request. The Countess should be considered with regards to redesigning future services as they should secure the contract and remove from the Trust who is unable to deliver.

Thank you!