New and confused

bethinuk · 08-21-2002, 10:32 AM

I have been told that I most likely have PCOS. I live in London, and have been frustrated by the slow progress getting answers in the NHS. I stopped taking BCP last October, and have not had a period since. I have been trying to convince the doctors to take me seriously since February, and finally got blood work done in early April, pointing to PCOS. After waiting 5 months, I will finally have an ultrasound at the end of this month, afterwhich time they will talk about recommending me to a specialist. Now I am worried about how long it will take to get test results back, and then get an appointment with the specialist. Does anyone out there have any advice on how to get the most out of the NHS to get quicker results? I know I sound impatient, but I fear that I am wasting time, and all I want are some answers! Thanks!

lasmus31 · 08-21-2002, 11:50 AM

Hiya Beth,

It took me up to 6 months to get an appointment with an Endocrinologist (this was not for diagnosis of PCOS though)

I think it differs between areas and I hope your wait isn't too long.

Look forward to seeing you on the boards.

hunterli · 08-21-2002, 06:14 PM

Hi Beth, WELCOME!

Where in London are you? Maybe someone here can recommend a good doc for you.

Lis

bethinuk · 08-22-2002, 07:23 AM

Thanks for the info. I live by Canary Wharf, and don't know yet what options are available.

My GP said that first I have to have the ultrasound, and when the results are back, then we can talk about referral. Then I guess I can get on a waiting list to see someone.

I am trying not to be too aggressive, as the docs seem to respond to this with "Don't be baby-crazy, you've got plenty of time" (I'm 28), but I can see that it could be another 6 months before I can even start getting answers. I guess I just have to live with it, but I appreciate any tips anyone has on how to move things along quicker.

Thanks!

NYbird · 08-22-2002, 08:47 AM

Hi there! I've had the same situation as you, but I'm in Middlesex. Originally my GP sent me for bloodwork and scan; the bloodwork took a week and I was told 6 months for a scan. Nightmare! Have you had your bloodwork yet? If that suggests PCOS, then maybe you can persuade your GP to refer you to a gyn sooner. My GP agreed to refer me to the gyn based on my bloodwork.

Next hurdle was the gyn... I started calling them as soon as I knew my letter from the GP went out. I was told that it could be 2 weeks if he was to see me for infertility and four months if it's for general gyn. Fortunately we're ttc, so our appointment is next week. We're keeping our fingers crossed that he will prescribe met and/or clomid.

My best advice is to persuade your GP to send you to a Gyn, and then get friendly with the gyn's secretary. As soon as I knew my letter went out from the GP, I started calling to follow up. Within two calls I knew I knew where I stood with the appointment. Oh, and interestingly, my letter for a scan showed up two days after my letter to see the Gyn. Instead of a six month wait for a scan, I suddenly have an appointment two weeks after my gyn. It's sooooo worth it to follow up with everyone involved! My dad gave me the best advice: never be a 'case patient'... always be a 'PERSON patient.'

Good luck with everything, and keep trying to get as much info out of them that you can! Never give up!

It's your health, and you should never feel as if it's being ignored or minimised or lost in the system. I know it's easier said than done, but I do believe it is possible to get the most out of the system that you can... never take 'no' for an answer...

hunterli · 08-22-2002, 08:55 AM

You're not far from me. I see Mr Baldwin at Whipps Cross Hospital in Leytonstone. And NYBird is right....his secretary is called Lisa and she is very helpful, has even been known to squeeze me in very quickly when I was desperate.

Lis

Georges_mum · 08-22-2002, 09:38 AM

I have found that too with the NHS, they seem to take forever to help you.I am off for my check up appointment after ovary drilling today at 2;15

its been 6months since the surgery and am now wondering how long things are going to take now for me to start my next lot of treatment!
This time i am seeing a lady dr so maybe she will get things moving a bit quicker for me but who knows.I am glad that you too are feeling frustrated with the length of time they take,im sure if these drs were in the same position as us they would like things to move a bit quicker!!
I hope you get things sorted out and it doesnt take too long,,i will keep you posted on how todays appointment goes!!