COVID!

[Bazmack48]

Was due to have colonoscopy 15 Jan, had phone call this morning for pre op assessment. First phone call 08.30am, just had hospital on the phone cancelling it due to too many COVID cases in the hospital. Whilst I could go private not sure if I could afford any treatment that may be needed if anything found during procedure. The doctor of course had no idea when it will be rescheduled for.

[Nicole_GCCA Partner]

Dear Bazmack48 ,

I'm so sorry to hear this! We are in very strange times and it sounds like the hospital is either overwhelmed and pulling staff from other areas to help COVID patients, or the hospital itself isn't safe to perform your procedure.

Is that how it works with the NHS - that if you go private for a screening procedure and it turns into diagnostic because something is found - that you are responsible for private pay for the treatment of that disease? I apologize I'm not familiar with how NHS works in that way.

This must be so disappointing to you, and I'm sure causing anxiety.

If it is possible to have a video or phone call with the colorectal specialist, that might be best - to discuss and weigh the risks v benefits of waiting:

What risks are there if there is something that requires treatment and more time goes by before a diagnosis/treatment occurs? But not having financial responsibility.

Versus, going private and potentially getting the colonoscopy in the near future but (potentially) having financial responsibility.

Can you contact the patient advocacy office at the hospital? They might be under a different name but typically there is a department (or person) who is responsible for patient rights and they often can be of assistance in providing more information or even connecting you to a patient navigator.

I'm sorry for the disappointment - it really is a tough situation with COVID. If there is a disease that needs to be treated, the sooner the better, but potential exposure to COVID and the financial limitations are very real drawbacks as well.

If I recall correctly from your previous post, one of the doctors wasn't too concerned - was that the GP or the colorectal specialist?

We're thinking of you and sorry that the options are limited at this time.

~Nicole, GCCA Staff Member & Colon Cancer Connected Site Administrator.

Just a reminder - this group is here to offer support, share experiences, and offer our thoughts - but this is not medical advice, and you should always consult your medical professional(s). Additionally, for all emergencies, seek urgent medical care, never delay.

[Hidden]

Oh no, this is my worry also I’m booked in for 2 weeks time, it’s taken me months to even go see my Doctor. I can’t wait any longer it’s making my anxiety worse. If this does happen I’m going to have to go private but like you not sure I could afford any treatment or do the private sector even offer it? Hope you’re not waiting too long.

[Bazmack48 in reply to Hidden]

We looked up costs to go private, starts at £2100. If anything is found not sure how I will get treatment. We are in the South East where hospitals are really under pressure so don’t know what is going to happen. Hope you get your test.