melanoma

Hi,

I was diagnosed with stage 1 a melanoma on a mole I had removed, I had more skin removed which thankfully came back negative. I was told I would need 2 see the dermatology team at royal free. I had my first appointment 2 Fridays ago for skin & lymph node checks, the dr I saw said I'd need 2 be seen for 3 months for the next 2 years. But when I went to reception to book my appointment the receptionist  gave me an appointment for Jan (6 months away) when I said the dr wanted to see me in 3 months she didn't even look me in the face & said we are fully booked. Do I just take the 6 months appointment.. Thanks. .

  • Hi

    Good to read that your treatment  went well and you are now to be monitored.  From a purely personal opinion; if it was me and the doctor had requested 3 monthly check ups, I would not be happy with settling for six months.  Maybe a call to your doctor's secretary, or failing that, a letter explaining the appointment you have been given does not follow the guidelines he gave you would be a first step. If you have a good GP he maybe able to help with this. In the meantime keep hold of the appointment you have as a safeguard. Hope you continue to do well.Jules54

  • Hi Jules,  thank you so much for your reply. The dr did ask if I had his no or the melanoma nurses no (I have her number) if I have any concerns then I was to ring them. My friends like you have advised me 2 contact her & ask the question. I just don't want to feel like I'm wasting people's time. I'll take your advice & call her  once again thanks.. Tracey.

  • You are not wasting her time honey - do you believe she would wait 6 months having been told by the professional he wanted to see her in 3?  I doubt it!  You and your health are the most important thing in this scenario, so tell them so! Good luck x

  • Hi tracey,

    You are definitely not wasting their time as you are following the consultant's recommendations. Please stick to your guns and get the appointment you deserve. All the best Jules x

  •  Hi Tracym

    The receptionist is just that, a receptionist, not a healthcare professional so you dont need their medical advice. Sure hospitals are working at full capacity and you often have to fight your corner to get the care your deserve. Write (dont phone) to the hospital doctor to ask for an appointment in 3 months time as was recommended at your last meeting. Writing provides a record that can't be lost and must be acted on. Also keep your 6 month appointment live.
     

  • Hi to everyone that has replied. First of all thank you all so very much for all your replies & support, it has helped me very much & made me realise I'm not some one making a deal out of nothing. I got a copy of the letter today from the hospital  that has been sent to my gp for my records. The letter clearly states the stage of melanoma I had & that I will be seen in 3 months time. So defo gonna phone 2mora to chase up. Once again thank you.. xx     

  • Having the facts in writing should help prove your point so all the best when you  make that call.Jules,x

  • Hello Tracey,

    I emailed you and I hope you received my message but just a quick note to let you know that I have changed your username to traceym

    This is because in order to protect your privacy and anonymity on the forum, we don't allow usernames to display your surname.

    Thanks for your understanding!

    Best wishes,

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator