Is there still a right to see a named consultant?

[Dee1]

Hello.

Several years ago I asked to see a particular endocrinologist who prescribes T3. When I phoned his secretary re an appointment, she said I could not specify seeing him unless I went private. Fortunately, the TPA (Thyroid Patient Assoc) had reassured me that it was my right to specify who I saw and to ask to see them every time. I therefore pushed and got to see my excellent endocrinologist every time.

I moved away from the area and saw a good endo there. 3 years later I'm back and requested a referral back to my excellent endo. Instead, I got a letter from someone in his team saying that they worked as a pool and I would have to see whoever I got.

Have the rules changed? Are we no longer able to request to see a named consultant? I am on T3 so need an endo who endorses it. I'm also very sensitive to medication so need continuity of care rather than a different person every time.

Thanks for your help.

[Trillylil]

Have you considered contacting your local PALs to ask what the hospital policy is?

[Debsoxford]

Hi Dee1

I'm unsure but when I was in an eye clinic and I asked for the Dr by name the receptionist told me I'd have a long wait, I smiled and said that's fine to see him I'm prepared to! I'd do enquiries as suggested (although I've never had any successful conversation with PALS) but also stress for patient continuity of care.

Good luck x

[trelemorele]

No the rules haven't changed. You can see whoever you fancy but it may be long wait.

I'm in this position, I've requested to see particular Endo but I have to wait 8 months for the appointment.

Apparently everybody wants to see him. Hmm... wonder why... 🤔

[Dee1 in reply to trelemorele]

Thanks to everyone who replied. It's much appreciated. Trelemorele, that is great to know. Where does it say that? I would like to know the source in case I need back up when making my case.

8 months, gosh he must be good.

[trelemorele in reply to Dee1]

I don't know if he's good, never seen him before but it says on his profile he's thyroid, pituitary and adrenal specialist (nothing about diabetes at last) so chances are he'll be able to at leas speak same thyroid language with me.

[rosserk]

Hi Dee1, the information you’re looking for can be found here

gov.uk/government/publicati...

[Dee1]

Thanks. I had looked there but couldn't find anything about a named consultant. I found this quote below, which suggested you could specify the team but does not mention specifying seeing the specific consultant and rather seems to suggest you see the consultant or a member of his team:

'You may also choose which clinical team will be in charge of your treatment within your chosen organisation. For a physical health condition, you will be seen by the consultant or by a clinician who works in the consultant’s team. For a mental health condition, you will be seen by the consultant or named health care professional who leads the mental health team or by another health care professional in the team.'

Is there something elsewhere that I'm missing?

Many thanks

Debbie