I have made two visits to A & E connected with cardiac failure and breathing problems. Staff were well intentioned but unable to actually provide help. I felt there is no point in going unless it is a straightforward issue like a broken limb. The only thing they tend to do is suggest you see your GP where it was actually my GP who told me to go to A & E if I was having a problem. Seems to be a lot of buck passing going on.. The CHOC doctor I saw kindly said she would arrange for me to see a cardiologist the next day but a few hours later I was contacted by phone and told that clinic was currently cancelled and guess what “ make an appointment to see your GP”. Unfortunately my GP does not have cardiac expertise....that is why he is called a “general practitioner “!

Reply from North Cumbria University Hospitals NHS Trust
Tue, 24 Sep 2019 08:52:05 +0100

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with the Trust. I am very sorry to read that your cardiac issues are causing you some problems. It must be a very anxious time for you and I can only apologise that you were disappointed by your care in Accident &Emergency and feel that the ‘buck has been passed’ I am sure your GP will have received a discharge summary from CHOC and A&E detailing your attendance and the attempt to be seen in cardiology. I hope it will not be too long before this appointment is rescheduled. We do value your feedback and I will share this with the relevant senior staff within the department. All feedback helps us to identify where we can improve. With our best wishes, Alison S-D Patient Experience