Share review of West Berkshire Community Hospital

West Berkshire Community Hospital 2023-05-26 Person 2 5 0

Before this appt., I was told that after having a steroid injection (knee) its likely beneficial effect would be enhanced by a course of physiotherapy. A few, mostly easy, exercises were suggested which I assumed would be increased in difficulty as time wore on. Next appt offered in SIX WEEKS time - Physio has a student arriving and so will be very busy - so my progress will not be monitored - any poor techniques not corrected. Physio said she would email the exercises - she checked my email address - but 5 days on they have not arrived. Phoned the department who confirmed that Physio has not uploaded them but she's not in today, so receptionist will email her. I do not think my determination to regain good mobility was believed and also being told that I should use a walking stick seemed a backward move to me - fortunately there were no sticks available - bad news for anyone who genuinely needs that level of support. I suspect the Physio is overwhelmed by NHS work pressures but no patient should sit back and accept this. It is a waste of NHS money to give half a treatment (injection in my case) and then ignore the follow up (proper physio)

Take me seriously! I am carrying more weight than is good for me and I am 74 years old - I think that I am being judged before I open my mouth as "old and fat". I lead a very active lifestyle - a lot of voluntary activities and also active hobbies, all of which are being curtailed due to a succession of NHS delaying tactics and not being properly heard by therapists. I can see that look of disbelief as I try to describe my normal lifestyle. I appreciate that my situation is not life-threatening but actually overlooking the thousands of people who present with mundane conditions is storing up a financial timebomb for the NHS. If I fall when gardening or walking the dog I could # my hip - that will cost a lot more than providing a few meaningful physio sessions. Or maybe my increasing weight will cause a stroke or heart attack - big money, assuming I survive. NHS is struggling all over but I have friends in other areas - particularly Surrey who are receiving a far more inclusive service. Come on Berkshire Healthcare - improve your service.