Care Opinion

Still awaiting dermatology appointment

Posted By Cambers79

"Still awaiting dermatology appointment"

About: Crosshouse Hospital / Dermatology

(as the patient),

Just over 2 years ago due to COVID and the inability to see a GP, I had to use private health care I had through my work to see a dermatologist. As a result I was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma and received immunotherapy treatment. 

After finishing treatment I went to my GP in May to ask if I could be referred to an NHS dermatologist so I can get skin checks. My GP referred me straight away and explained I was a stage 4 patient. 

In August after still not hearing anything regarding an appointment, I called to find out what was happening. I was told that I was not in the urgent list as I am not actively getting treatment for cancer just now. 

It is now another month on with still no word. 

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Responses

Response from Sandra Hanlon, Ward 2E- Dermatology and Dermtology OP, Crosshouse Hospital, NHS Ayrshire and Arran 13 months ago
Sandra Hanlon
Ward 2E- Dermatology and Dermtology OP, Crosshouse Hospital,
NHS Ayrshire and Arran

Submitted on 15/09/2023 at 20:41
Published on Care Opinion at 20:41

Dear Cambers79

I am very sorry that you have been waiting this length of time to be seen by the Dermatology team, and know that with your previous diagnosis you will be particularly anxious to have your skin checked.

If you are concerned about any mole whilst you are waiting to receive your appointment can I please ask that you get back in touch with your GP. Sometimes the GP will arrange for photographs to be taken and the photos can then be reviewed by one of the Dermatology Consultants (a process we call photo-triage), which allows patients who need to be seen urgently to get a sooner appointment.

Please be reassured that we are working hard and exploring various ways to improve our waiting times to get our patients seen in a more timely fashion, including doing extra clinics and ensuring that any cancelled appointments are offered to patients on the waiting list who can come at short notice. There is also work at a national level as it has been recognised that Dermatology services are in greater demand across the whole of Scotland.

If you would be willing to contact me on 01563 827923 to give me your details I could look into your referral.

Kind regards

Sandra Hanlon

Dermatology Senior Charge Nurse

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