I can only commend the NHS for their organisation, care and treatment of my BC.
Systems put in place by my local NHS meant:
I had mammogram & Biopsies on the Monday Pm and had results on the Thursday.
On the Thursday I was given my results, I met with my named Surgeon and met my named BC Nurse specialist.
I was also given at that time the date (two weeks later) for my Surgery as well as appt letters for each of the various scans and tests needed as well as the name and appointment to meet my oncologist.
Due to my cancer and it spread the “order of my treatment” changed.
I was issued with information for me and my family (gratefully received and compiled by BCC)at my local hospital.
The staff who performed the scans,blood tests, porters, reception staff and all nursing staff, radiotherapy staff I cannot fault, extremley courteous, mindful, happy and caring staff.
The treatment plans were explained to my family and me, the oncologist/surgeon/BC nurse specialist patience with me was nothing short of saintly (with me not being able to take in too much and questioning everything they said to me).
When I asked could I meet with the surgeon who was to perform my mastectomy as well as the plastic surgeon an appt was duly and timely arranged.
I had the same staff deal with me and if not, I was informed.
Its a pity but I understand why I cannot mention the absolutely fabulous staff at my local NHS Trust based in the north west of England.
The only failing within the NHS lies with my local GP surgery who over a period of 3mths and after seeing 3 diff GPs who all in my notes make ref to BC and fam hist and me not happy as change in size. texture etc they failed to refer me on. When one did it was with a non urgent referral.
We live in a face paced world and yes these people are highly skilled, intelligent members of society with whom we place so much trust. I questioned the last GP and demanded a mammogram, this saved my life albeit I waited 7wks for the appt, only because the GP had noted a non urgent referral!!!
We are all human.
We have a wonderful service available freely in this country, I am sure for some, like me there are aspects not perfect but some countries dont provide such world class treatments.
We are quick to forget that staff such as those in radiotherapy often end up working late to accomodate all patients needing to be given treatment that day.
The oncologists, surgeons, nursing staff who listen to patient after patients concerns, that must be soul distroying for them to hear day in and day out often negativity.
They really are extraordinary people and still manage to make us smile and provide a world class treatment and give us a chance at survival.