Since I was diagnosed with Crohn's disease several years ago I have had annual in-person check-ups with the gastroenterologist at Glasgow's Queen Elizabeth University Hospital. Sometimes appointments were more frequent if I needed specific treatment or care. During the pandemic these appointments moved to phone calls, so I have not been seen in person since 2019.
This year they cancelled my appointment, and I had to call several different numbers to try and find out what was happening. I've now been told that clinics are too full and I won't get a space. I am experiencing flare up symptoms, and I am in need of medical care.
I have been referred to the IBD nurse helpline, and was given an appointment at a specific time recently. I had 3 missed calls from the helpline, all at different times that weren't my appointment time, that day. I work during the day so I need a fixed time to speak to a nurse. I have now managed to get a hold of them again, but now they're saying they can't give me a fixed appointment time, they'll just try me a few times over the day, and if I don't pick up I have to call back and start all over again with arranging a time to speak to them. At this rate it could be weeks before I actually am able to speak to someone.
I am experiencing fatigue, brain fog and pain and it is difficult to remember to constantly phone and leave messages. I shouldn't have to chase the NHS to meet my needs, but that is what is happening.
The helpline nurse sounded annoyed when I asked about getting a fixed appointment time - I don't think this is an unreasonable request, given that I have a serious health condition and I work during the day. I actually work for the NHS, and this all completely baffles me.
I feel that this service is broken, it doesn't work for people at all. I feel really alone, very frustrated and very scared. I thought my health was in good hands but I really don't feel like that any more. I don't know where to turn for care.
Appointments
Staff attitude
"I feel really alone, very frustrated and very scared"
About: Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Glasgow / Gastroenterology (Stomach and gut problems) Wards 8b, 8c &8d Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Glasgow Gastroenterology (Stomach and gut problems) Wards 8b, 8c &8d Glasgow G51 4TF
Posted by zuluhy95 (as ),
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