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Challenges with accessing healthcare

Cheryl

Hello, 

I am new here. I have an unrelated health issue that I am trying to get treatment for. I will try to keep this brief but basically the consultant I am under is insisting he sends me to a hospital in London for investigation and treatment. I do not live near London at all, I live several hours away. First he said he needs to refer me because the tests I need aren’t available locally, which I understood. But now the doctor in London is saying she isn’t doing any tests. So I am questioning why I still need to go to London. 

Due to my autistic challenges travelling to London will be extremely hard and traumatic for me, for various reasons. I have tried to tell my local consultant this and he just says I have to go as he wants them to decide treatment (the original reason he claimed I need to go changed). 

I do not feel listened to. My question is does anyone know if they are required to make any adjustments for me? Or do I just have to go? I am unsure if I’ll even be able to tolerate it. there is a hospital within my county that specialises in the same thing the hospital in London does, but the consultant claimed I can’t go there. 

I hope my post makes sense. 

  • in reply to Dawn

    Thank you. I had a feeling they are required to make reasonable adjustments but I’m quite new to this as have only been diagnosed recently so I don’t know my rights much. I have an appointment with my gp this week so I will feel a bit more confident now I have some info on this. 

  • in reply to AuTriker

    It is so stressful! I have been really upset about it and it’s affecting my functioning even now, so I dread to think how it’ll be if I attempt to go up there. I’m glad you think it sounds mad too! The consultant has contradicted himself so much. 

  • Yes indeed, they are required to make reasonable adjustments for you legally. So, either send you nearer home or make some transport arrangements you can manage for you. It sounds like they just don't get that the need is there.

    You are entitled to a free advocate. Mind ought be able to tell you which organisation deals with your area. Phone them. They should be able to assign someone to negotiate with them on your behalf.

    It might well be that the only suitable specialist is in London, but they have to help you get there somehow. What would they do if you had physical disabilities which meant you couldn't drive or get a train? - Same scenario.

  • Oh crumbs, that sounds really stressful and awful! London is far too busy and crowded. It sounds absolutely mad if there is somewhere in your county that does it too. I would also want to know why on earth they can't see you. Is it urgent and their wait list is too long? I suppose if the dr in London was the best at the condition then it might be worth the stress, but you do have a right t a second opinion and to be treated where you want if it is possible.