Private gastroenterologist?

Nicki

kiwi_fruit wrote: »

Nicki, right, I see, thank you..
And if I wait 5 months now to see NHS Gastro, how would it be if I need another appoinment, waiting for 5 months again? And RE tests, will it be queue like for 2 years..?

That might depend on your local NHS hospital, but I shouldn't have thought so. When we've seen consultants on the NHS, they've always rescheduled the next appointment for a few weeks later. You probably would have to wait for major tests (like a colonoscopy) but I would imagine if the consultant thought it was urgent (ie life threatening) he could and would fast track it. You might also have a choice as to where to have the tests done so if your local hospital had a long waiting list, could maybe go somewhere with a shorter one?

I'm not a medical professional though, and these are just my own experiences of the system in the area I live in (which is in England not Wales). The consultant's secretary could maybe give you some more info about timescales in your area if you phoned and asked?

kiwi_fruit

I'll try to find out, thank you. Problem is, GP says he doesn't understand my problem so doesn't have answers, although thinks at my age it can't be anything serious. But as there are more and more worrying symptoms appear I'm just afraid to wait for 5 months and actually longer as you say for tests etc.
BUPA actually offers smth like bowel health assesment for £500, but I was refused because of my age, surprisingly enough.