returning newbie

[glad2behere]

Hi, Im back after a long break from the old facebook BD group glad to see Behcets UK on here as youve been a brilliant support over the years since my dx, Im in Worcester UK (hospital has been in special measures and as far as I know no permanent in post consultant rheumatologist for last few years)having problems getting referral to Behcets centre Birmingham. GP thinks it might havfe been rejected as out of area, what do I do if I have been cos she said she doesnt get told if patients get "bounced"

[gillianTS]

Surprised that they would not even respond either way. Has the GP written to your nearest centre. I would contact the Birmingham CofE and pose the question to them rather than be left worrying, I would also request a copy of the letter the GP sent so you can see what has been written and be able to refer to it should you decide to contact them.

[Jaxxi]

Hi there, neighbour! I was originally in Malvern when I was first referred to Birmingham CoE. I am technically in Herefordshire now (moved just to the other side of the hills) but still being seen at Birmingham. You are definitely 'in area' - though I don't think there is really a geographic boundary as I know people around here who go to London and others who decided to come to Birmingham even though London was their closest. Generally across the NHS you can pick and choose where you are treated, apart from GP services which have 'catchments'. So you can be referred to a rheumatologist in another area if you want. I think there must be another reason why your referral hasn't gone through. You need to do some digging. You could easily ring the Centre and ask if they have received the referral - sometimes these things go astray. Ask for Debbie Mitton or Vicky Sewell.

[TonyWT Partner]

Sorry to hear of your difficulties. You can choose whichever CoE you would prefer to be seen by and you don't even have to have a, so called, firm diagnosis of Behcet's but a suspicion of it, together with a suggested priority - e.g. very urgent or not depending on your presentation - and a request for a second opinion. It doesn't cost the GP/CCG anything either (in England). Details of the referral process on this link behcets.org.uk/referral-cen... and contact numbers for Birmingham CoE on the front page of our website. I agree with Gillian and Jaxxi's supportive comments. It appears something is not quite right from what you have been led to believe and you need to seek evidence of what has been going on. (I have sent a private message too you ). Tony