Hazeldene Medical Centre
AM
Andrew M. one year ago • From Google
Average
I battled a chest infection from December 9th to January 21st, requiring three rounds of antibiotics. During the first week, my concerns were repeatedly ignored. On December 12th, I was 37th in the phone queue, and when it finally dwindled to six, my district nurse arrived, forcing me to hang up. This happened again on Friday. Despite my complex medical history—including heart issues, asthma, chronic pain, mental health challenges, anxiety, PTSD, stoma bag, hernia, and compromised immunity—I felt unheard. On January 16th, my daughter had to call the surgery at 8am to secure an appointment. They're aware I'm housebound, with significant physical limitations, an unhealing stomach wound, and mobility problems. I have no transportation and require support to leave home. The NHS acknowledges these constraints, yet the surgery seems to contradict this. During our January 16th conversation, I expressed my frustrations about my treatment and situation. Midway, the doctor surprisingly asked me to come to the surgery—clearly not understanding my circumstances. She eventually arranged for a community acute nurse to assess me. After examining me, the nurse consulted the doctor, who finally prescribed antibiotics—a week after I'd initially requested them. On January 2nd, when the chest infection returned, I was told no appointments were available. I requested a repeat antibiotic prescription, and the receptionist suggested calling 111. After providing extensive information to 111, I discovered their advice was incorrect. Surprisingly, they managed to arrange a telephone consultation with my surgery's doctor. I received amoxicillin, but after a week, the infection persisted. I requested a stronger antibiotic, which was granted. Thankfully, by January 21st, the chest infection and cough had resolved. Is this experience acceptable? Am I being misrepresented or consistently overlooked? Managing my numerous health challenges—chronic pain, mobility issues, loneliness, mental health struggles—is already overwhelming. These additional obstacles make an already difficult life feel nearly unbearable.
Elizabeth M.