"Made to feel I was making things up"

I was admitted to St. John's Hospital due to a flare of a chronic, debilitating gastrointestinal issue at the end of August. I was passed through A&E, MAU and then onto the gastroenterology ward. I was kept in for two nights on the advice that the team wanted to get an urgent scope and an MRI, which I agreed upon. I did not end up getting these tests as an inpatient. 

On the day of discharge, I was seen on the morning ward round by a senior doctor. To say their bedside manner was appalling is an understatement. I tried explaining my symptoms and history, they ignored me and insisted there was nothing wrong. They insinuated that I was looking for a diagnosis and medication for a label.

This encounter had made me feel seeking medical attention was a waste of time and I was making my symptoms up. I cried in my bed space and requested a second opinion. Another patient was also very upset after her encounter and she consoled me. 

I requested a second opinion from another doctor. On a positive note I did meet another doctor, who was compassionate and listened to my concerns. Thank you. The nursing team were very reassuring and kind - thank you so much for making me feel comfortable and reassured me that I wasn't a hypochondriac.

I was previously referred to gastroenterology by my GP several times, and have been waiting over 2 years to actually see gastroenterology in person. I have finally received a video appointment and an outpatient scope. I'm still awaiting an MRI which I am aware has a long waiting list. 

As a nurse myself, I'm so disappointed with the encounter I had and I really do hope other patients don't experience this. I am lucky I was able to advocate for myself, some others aren't so lucky.