Hi Claire
I am in Somefrset too and attend Taunton Hospital although i wish i didn't.
The rheumy department there is in such a mess that my gp is no longer referring patients there and believe me he had too kick up merry **** to get me followed up and diganosed.
I would definately advise that if atall possible you attemt to get seen at another hospital. For your own sake and to stop things dragging on and on.
My gp has again had to contact my consultant there regarding my steroid reduction or stopping t and starting my methotrexate before i come off of the steroids, he started calling last Tuesday, he has left 2 messages with his secrectary, has sent 2 e mails and left 1 message on his mobile phone and still no response.
I was diagnosed with MCTD 2 mths ago after waiting 4 mths to go back after my first apppt as my follow up was cancelled.
I was in for 20 mins given no info about risk factors or prognosis of the disease or even told exactly what it meant. I had no opportunity to ask questions.
I was sent off for more tests and with a plan in terms of medications and was given a follow up in Feb 09. This is despite being on loads of tablets and suffing a lot form my symtoms to the point where i 've actualy been registered disabled.
I am only telling you all of this Claire as all this has been difficult to deal with on top of being very unwell and i would say that the above are very strong reasons to be seen somewhere else.
As far as i have been told the department is short staffed and tthere are funding issues wtih the nhs trust and that is why things are in such a mess.
Good Luck
Take Care
Cassie
