Unresponsive hospital rheumatology department

[tcpace]

My wife had her first zoledronic acid infusion early January 2024 and was told she would receive 2 more annual infusions. Despite persistently emailing the department, she hasn't been given a date for next infusion or even confirmation that the treatment is to continue. Phone calls are met with a recorded message with no queueing system, just told very busy ring back another time. Anyone know if it is OK for the second infusion to be delayed and, if so, for how long? Is there any way to get the matter escalated so that we at least get a response from them?

[Sunseaandsand]

Hi, if you know the Consultant or doctors name who put your wife on the treatment I would suggest calling the main switchboard and asking to be put through the secretary. Of course you may have already done this.

Persistence is the answer and it is exhausting having to chase these things up ( something patients should not have to do) if you get an initial response which is not followed through keep calling till you get the answers you need.

Failing all of this you can take your problem to PALS who will liaise with the department and give you a satisfactory outcome.

Regarding the lapse between infusions it is not ideal, but bisphosphonates do stay in the bones for quite sometime unlike some of the other treatments. If you call the Roysl Osteoporosis Nurses Helpline they will be able to help further with the answer to your question regarding this.

If I may add you certainly have your wife’s best interests at heart and I hope you get a response quickly.

[Calciumgirl]

I had my first infusion in December 2024 and I was told by the receptionist that I would be contacted before my next infusion is due this December.I think your wife should have been contacted but a slight delay should be OK as Zoledronic acid stays in the system.Keep trying and even perhaps speak to your GP to get this resolved.Good luck.These infusions are stressful enough without this added pressure.