'Hidden' NHS hospital waiting lists.
It's bad enough waiting such a long time to see a consultant after being referred by GPs, but at least these figures are recorded so we're able to see how the NHS is performing in this regard.
Unfortunately it's the waiting times for follow-up appointments that aren't available.
I'm at an age when I expect various degenerative and age related ailments to develop and I've had to request referrals from my GP to a number of 'ologists in recent years.
I've patiently waited to see a cardiologist who arranged treadmill tests, then heard nothing for a year. His secretary wouldn't answer the phone and only after mithering from my GP did I get a follow-up appointment to discuss the results.
Likewise, after having barium swallow x-rays for reflux issues, I again heard nothing for nearly a year.
Now I've been checking my records and realised it's been over a year since I had a bladder procedure done, with a note on my discharge report for an OP appointment in 2/3 months.
It's only because I've chased up the problems myself that I've now been offered appointments.
What if I hadn't? Are they just hoping I'll kick the bucket and be one less statistic?
Unlike a GP appointment, I'm allowed to have more than one complaint, so number 2 is:
Loud and inappropriate so called 'background' music.
The worst is nerve jangling rock/pop music in GPs waiting room.
Restaurants and cafes when you're trying to chat and hear conversation whilst the staff are playing some loud heavy beat stuff they've probably chosen for themselves without any regard for customers.
I won't return to such places and seek out venues with no music or at least 'easy listening'.
Even my city centre library has music playing.
Good Lord!... What's the world coming to?
Sorry matron! I'll finish my cocoa and take my BP pills now.