Four years ago I was referred to and treated by spinal neurology after several MRI’s showed severe spinal issues. Rhizolysis was tried, advice given if the improvement lasted at least six months to return for a second bout. The improvement lasted just over a year. I was refused an appointment, after 12 months a new referral was needed. My surgery instantly referred me to MSK (muscular skeletal interface) , the gatekeeper for these appointments. 8 months later after an MRI I was finally referred back to spinal neurology. The referral was refused on the grounds there was no change from the last MRI and MSK should instead refer to the pain clinic. Three months and two appointments later it was agreed there was nothing they could offer me, in the words of a clinician you know more than we do. Neither I nor the MSK clinician could understand why as I had been seen as suitable for rhizolysis before and with no mechanical change I refused an appointment. My GP was furious. Would I like to be re-referred? I refused, simply have insufficient energy to go through the process again. Definitely a tactic to reduce waiting lists leaving me in chronic pain which is at times unmanageable.
Mr C had a mitral valve repair three years ago when he was 80. On discharge he was told a review after six months then annually. The first review occurred, we were told the next would include an echocardiogram. After 18 months I chased it to be told he had been moved to the two year review list. That didn't seem so bad, just another six months to wait. Oh no, the secretary very apologetically sent an email she had been given, the clinic was running 142 weeks behind. Now? Even longer due to clinic cancellations. Advice is if we’re worried to call an ambulance as if an emergency arrival all review checks would occur. Having an odd sense of humour Mr C tells people he suspects he’ll be gone from the planet when the appointment arrives. If he’s right he will of course no longer be on their list.
On a lesser note I was summoned to the surgery for a blood test to support a medication review. Duly turning up this morning I was turned away, none of my meds require a blood test. The practice manger is investigating, what a waste of an appointment.
When either of us get to see someone care has been exemplary, it’s just such a struggle.
Good Morning Saturday 6th June 2026
