Nhs Audiology

[jennyjoan]

I knew according to my cousin that it would be impossible to get an appointment re a broken earmould which means everything to me as in fitting and non whistling.

So I made a private appointment for today (I didn't contact NHS thinking it would be futile) - however private consultant contacted me the following day to cancel today's appointment cos he has Covid for the third time.

I decided to go down bodily to NHS at hospital on Monday and I got an appointment for the impression of an earmould this afternoon (Friday) . She told me she would get me two earmoulds ordered - one for hard and soft but I would wait for 6 weeks. Luckily I have an old earmould (which puts my head away with the whistling) but I was so pleased I was seen so soon.

As Ladybirder said - it's not all bad, I am going to get two free earmoulds, free tubing and batteries which I have been getting for years and they are sending me for a retest of my hearing (that will be a while) - but where would we get it all so free.

[tonyav]

Good news that, jj ( worked out well in the end )

but where would we get it all so free.

Nowhere apart from the UK that I can think of.

[Gill1941]

The NHS is funded through various taxes and National Insurance contributions it is not "free".
Personally I would rather only pay for something when I am ill and get fast service when needed. Been waiting 4 months for urgent MRI scan on a lump.

[barry1010]

If you'd prefer to pay have you looked in to the MRI done privately, Gill? Prices start around £200.

[Gill1941]

Just waiting to hear from my doctor hopefully next week. I might then have it privately.
Trouble is 2 months ago had Ultrasound scan who said I need MRI. I waited to hear and finally I rang hospital and they said my doctor would have to arrange it which I was not told at the time. Getting to see own doctor is a nightmare.
Lump in groin and suspected lymph problem. Fluid in abdomen.
Worrying when you don't know what it is.
Anyway, lots worse off. Various things over the years certainly have not any faith in NHS.

[barry1010]

Waiting is horrible - I hope you get your MRI soon and it proves to be easily sorted and nothing to worry about

[Gill1941]

Thanks, Barry.
Had it since before Christmas. Alone and on crutches for over 5 years since hip operation went wrong.
This will be the last AB will hear of this as don't want to join the moaners who keep on about their problems and never do anything about it!

[calmck]

Just let us know when you get sorted or come for a friendly "gossip" should the need arise. Many on here can be an anonymous friend in need

[Gill1941]

Thanks, calmck. Have been a member since 2005 but rarely post. Do keep up with the site most days though but get annoyed by some posts so refrain from commenting.
One doesn't "know" people online and all their different circumstances in life.
Can be difficult sometimes .

[jennyjoan]

I do know of course that many people are waiting for very important appointments as I myself have spent over £10,000 on my teeth over the years so I count myself very lucky that I was able to afford it, but as I said in my post I was going to go private only the Consultant got Covid.

My nephew's wife had a lump on her stomach and it was about 2 years ago but he (nephew) said that it cost £200 for the MRI. That can be a lot of money to some people. I'm sorry to hear of your plight Gill but perhaps contact GP on a very regular basis and tell them you are not well.

[Gill1941]

Will do that,jj. Sorry for hijacking your thread!
Was in touch with surgery on Thursday and might hear from doctor next week. If I don't I'll be in touch again now I know she has to arrange for a MRI.
Lumps are worrying especially when the cause in unknown.
Good luck with your hearing aids.
That's another thing I have to sort out. Went to brother-in-law's funeral last week and hardly heard a thing!

[ladybirder]

Bless you Gill. I hope you get sorted soon. xx

[Gill1941]

Thank you lb.
Moan over for today. Let's hope next week brings some news.
Lots worse off. I could be in the Ukraine.

[ladybirder]

Gill if I was in Ukraine I would have to stay where I was, clutching my dog awaiting my fate. Unless some kind person turned up with a wheelchair. Same with you I suspect. It's good we are where we are:-)

[ladybirder]

Or a wheelbarrow, that'd do.

Sorry jj way off your OP.:-(