Referrals

[silverunicorn10]

Hi it's my hubby who has MF and we are in the UK . Treatment is okay but his symptoms are progressing and I feel he should see a specialist. As we are I London I was going to ask for a referral to dr Caire Harrison . Has anyone else in the UK done this and if so did they agree. Also if they say no can I see her privately ( depending how much) . Thanks

[Rachelthepotter]

NHS entitles you to a second opinion. Didn’t thinkClaire Harrison sees people privately.

[Mazcd Partner MPNVoice]

Hi silverunicorn10, you can ask the GP or consultant haematologist to refer your husband to see another haematologist at a different hospital of his choice, including Prof Harrison and her team, she does not however see patients privately. Kind regards, Maz

[SuekJ]

Hi, I have my appointment with prof Harrison in 2 weeks. My haematologist referred me because my current drug treatment is not very effective. Guys Hospital have access to alternatives. If you feel you husbands mpn is not stable and local hospital treatment is not working I’m sure your haematologist would refer you if you ask.

Best of luck!

Sue

[Wyebird]

Ask your specialist to refer you. You are entitled to a second opinion. My friend living in Yorkshire saw her for a second opinion. Good luck

[katiewalsh]

Hi Silverunicorn, you’re a great helpmate for your husband. Claire Harrison is one of the top MPN specialists in the world. I live in the U.S. & know what an outstanding reputation she has. And it seems that everyone on here who’s been able to see her think she’s extremely good. Best of luck to you both. And remember to take care of yourself too. Katie

[Hidden]

Any referral needs to by from your GP or with your GPS consent. Tertiary referrals between consultants are not allowed for outpatients as the bill payer has to agree!!

[silverunicorn10]

Hi I've just checked on the nhs website and it does say we can ask our consultant for a second opinion regarding his condition in relation to his care. (do not need to go through GP) They do not have to agree but considering there is only about 650 MF suffers in the UK I can't see why they would refuse especially as they (current hospital) do not have a specialist MF team . But no good speculating will need to wait till the appointment and will follow the nhs guidelines regarding a second opinion.

[kimbolew]

My hospital in the Midlands doesn’t have an MF specialist so I asked to be referred to Claire Harrison for advice on future care planning. She is now referring me to one of her colleagues at one of the Birmingham hospitals to be closer to home when the time comes for treatment

[silverunicorn10 in reply to kimbolew]

Ahh thank you for that. You have put my mind at rest .xx

[silverunicorn10]

Just a quick update. Doctor at the hospital has agreed to a referral to Professor Harrison and also agreed to a change from HU to Ruxolitinib to address his symptoms. So thank you every body for your support and help. Love always x