Read on Twitter
Oh what a barrel of laughs. I had to try and access a District or Community nurse for my husband. Without going into detail - we needed advice, there was pus & the situation was well dodgy.
I was told off for not ringing at 8.00am - sorry but human health doesn't work like that.
I was told off for not ringing at 8.00am - sorry but human health doesn't work like that.
By midday I was worried enough to call the surgery - again. I could fill in an online form, but otherwise I'd have to wait until the 'morrow. I asked if I could speak to a nurse - 'none available.'
Then it was suggested that we go to the local Walk In centre - if husband could walk, he can't atm. A neighbour suggested Community nurses. They were courteous & kind but - here's the kicker He had to be referred by the local GP.
The one who wasn't taking calls & we'd left contact until too late. Undeterred, I rang the GP - again. That's when the fun really started. "Was my husband really housebound, "Yes atm." "Was he classified as being housebound?"
"No, but this is an emergency that's made a visit from a healthcare professional imperative." "He can't walk."
"I don't know if I can refer you."
Even though I wanted to say "FFS" - I didn't.Pus & blood was oozing out onto the floor at this stage.
"I don't know if I can refer you."
Even though I wanted to say "FFS" - I didn't.Pus & blood was oozing out onto the floor at this stage.
I'm not a nurse, I'm a writer & by this stage of the conversation I was ready to explode - reader - I didn't.
But our everyday health service has gone. It's not fair on those that work as receptionists or @NHS111 call handlers to take worry, pain and fears of those seeking help.
But our everyday health service has gone. It's not fair on those that work as receptionists or @NHS111 call handlers to take worry, pain and fears of those seeking help.
