Getting lost in the system?

[Andrew110758]

As a result of my driving license renewal, I was prompted to look at my diabetic care. As a type 1 with long standing issues I have been moved from the Diabetic Nursing Team to the Consultants out clinics at the hospital. It came to light that I had not seen anyone, or spoken to them for about 24 months....... Due to Covid every appointment I was given ended up being cancelled ( even phone appointments) and in the last 9 months, nothing at all. I have had to get the GP to refer me to the team again !. Same with things like foot checks, had to push to be physically seen. Anyone else finding that those physical checks which were a part of life have been dropped by the NHS?
Slightly different, I also had issues with my feet, in as much as I now need help with the mundane process of cutting toenails and checking my feet. In the past I was told,( and once did use) I would get help from the local NHS Chiropody unit. GP referred the issue, yet Podiatry did a cursory inspection and just said "go private, not our problem". One wonders how the different facets of the NHS have become so out of touch?. The Podiatry unit reckons they have no interest at all until in their words, " you cannot feel if you are standing on a Leggo brick" !

 

[Cherrelle DUK]

Hi Andrew110758,

Really sorry to hear this. I've found that a lot of services have been reduced or stopped completely of late. That includes prematurely being discharged from things that you usually wouldn't have been. Having said that, checking the feet of diabetics is something I've noticed declining before the pandemic unless you're visiting for a related reason.

It's a pain but If there are things that are concerning you then you'll have to push for your GP to look into it and make referrals. It might also be worth looking into your local pharmacy as I know places like Lloyds pharmacy did foot checks and other such things for diabetics.

 

[everydayupsanddowns]

Sorry to hear you have had difficulties accessing regular check-ups @Andrew110758

The system certainly does seem to be under a lot of strain at the moment, and some of the routine clinics seem to have been set aside for more urgent care.

Personally I haven’t seen anyone face to face about my diabetes since last March, so my ‘annual review’ is getting on for 18months now, and still no sign of anything on the horizon.

Hope you can get an appointment relatively soon, and access the help you need for your feet.

Have you been looking into private appointments for your routine foot care?