"Responsive Services"

My mother developed a cough last September. She has a diagnosis of emphasyma. Like many patients she was reluctant to go to see her GP but eventually after weeks of various cough medicines agreed to go in October. Her GP changed some of her medications, arranged an X Ray and referred her to a Consultant at Warrington General hospital. Her coughing continued keeping her awake night after night and generally wearing her out. She was eventually seen by the Consultant in January who advised her it isn't a chest problem and she needs a referral to ENT. She was advised to go back to see her GP to refer her. Her GP surgury gave her a number for Choose and book - she was given a choice of Hospitals in the area and told she would be sent an appointment in about 2 weeks. This does not appear to be in the spirit of the choose and book system. However, much more importantly, my mum has been passed around, with no relief from the debilitating cough, resulting in sleepless nights which is having enormous negative impact on her health and quality of life. It feel like today is back at square one - ie still waiting to be seen.