Thank-you everyone

I post this, because previous consultants have actually made me so miserable I have felt more ill. The they say ‘try to relax’ and suggest massage or yoga etc Apart from the fact many of us are working parents, many on low incomes and short of time with fatigue,the best way we can ‘relax’ is knowing we have a consultant offering Appropriate duty of Care ! Their hands may well be ‘tied’ in some respects, due to health authority rules, but there is no excuse to be arrogant, dismissive or rude, even telling lies and not offer even the most basic of observations while waiting for or during treatment. My GP said ‘It’s important to have faith in those who are treating you’ –This so true ! It’s a negative thing all round if not – I still don’t get the reason why some public health care medics feel they have the right to treat patients like this . It should be a mutually respectful relationship and not one of one with power lording it over an already ill /stressed patient!

I have been through quite a lot getting where I am now, with a supportive GP and consultant. I had to travel quite a way to see my new consultant and it cost me in train fares and an over-night hotel, but it was worth every penny. If you are living in an area that has an alternative option, I say change. Find out what it takes to change, investigate, chase up, contact other specialists, do not give up. It is not right that we live in fear of some of our health care providers. (or anyone else for that matter!)

This also applies to receptionists etc – Regarding my previous post on the abusive (yes DT is correct, it IS abuse) receptionist at my local hospital, I am pleased to report that I mentioned her behaviour to someone who is in a more senior position and has beaten HepC themselves ; They have had a ‘quiet word’ with her manager. Don’t let these people bully you. It’s not acceptable – at all and if more of us stand up to them, a picture should emerge as to who these individuals are.

I shall go armed with the facts and ready for my own little ‘ray of sunshine’ for next bloods there. It’s a pity my new hospital is such a journey, staff were lovely, the nurse was so caring and kind and who got my bloods without pain, lumps or bruising and barely a mark and didn’t flinch at my request of a butterfly needle. A sign of a well-run treatment centre with a Dr who makes sure the attitude is good and an example of what can be done with good leadership, even when the NHS or other health authorities may be struggling. There has been pro-active work to create this attitude from what I read, it isn’t just luck, good for that person. It helps to create a happier clinic for patient and staff.

While it may not be appropriate to thank your new centre on here please make sure you do so to their managers and others you meet

Yes, I most definitely will Gaj – and thank-you for the reminder.