I have been given the option of bookinga rheumatologist through NHS Choices...York...Selby...Harrogate and Chapel Allerton. Trying to book on line I was informed that Chapel Allerton, , , which Eileen recommended had no appointments, likewise Harrogate. York was September and Selby August. Has anyone used these hospitals. Also is it worth going privately? Thanks
If you go privately you should get an appointment much quicker. You need a rheumy experienced in PMR as some are more so than others. You can look up their profiles on line and choose the one you think best. Also you are given much longer so don't have to feel rushed about talking over your symptoms etc. When I went to rheumy dept on the NHS they gave me an impossible programme which I couldn't keep to which was most depressing. Just wanted to get me from 30mg to 10mg within weeks which was scary.... I think it will be taking me a year to be successful!! And this doesn't matter.
Sorry May, I can't help you with this one as I live in Cornwall. If you are being treated by your GP with preds and they are working fine then could you not hang on and visit the rheumy of your choice. However, if you haven't been diagnosed yet and am nit currently being treated with preds then you may have to book the earliest appointment even if it's with an unknown rheumy.
if you can afford it though, see if the rheumy of your choice has vacant near appointments and book one of them. I wish you well. Regards, tina
Yes i go to Chapel Allerton, it really isworth going there. Every one is so kind and very helpfull. Go if you can, i am under Sarah Bingham