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"Still waiting for initial appointment"

About: Fiona Stanley Hospital

(as the patient),

I'm feeling really deflated. I'm in constant pain every day, and it's severely impacting my life in ways I never imagined. My boob size is 10LL, and it's reached a point where I can’t function properly anymore. Simple tasks that most people take for granted are a struggle for me. I can’t lift my children or play with them the way I want to. Even something as basic as using a backpack is out of the question. Every day is a battle, and I'm exhausted from seeing a chiropractor fortnightly and a physio weekly just to manage the relentless pain.

Finding clothes that fit has become an almost impossible task. I have to wear oversized clothing, which makes me feel uncomfortable and adds to my sensory and regulation issues. I used to enjoy dressing up, but now I dread it because nothing fits right or feels right.

On top of this, I have autism, which makes coping with constant sensory overload incredibly challenging. The weight and discomfort from my breasts are a constant source of stress, making it difficult for me to regulate my emotions and function daily. Every minute of the day, I am aware of the pain and the limitations it imposes on me. It's like carrying a heavy burden that never eases.

To add to the frustration, I only weigh 78 kgs and can’t even speed walk without experiencing significant discomfort. Activities that used to be simple and enjoyable have become painful and nearly impossible.

My GP sent a referral on a few months ago as a priority 2 due to the severity of my situation. However, it has been 445 days and my referral is still 'waiting.' Despite my GP’s efforts to follow up, there has been no progress. Every day that passes feels like a lifetime, and I’m losing hope that I’ll ever get the help I need.

I understand there are delays in the system, but I believe this has gone beyond the acceptable timeframe. The prolonged wait is not just an inconvenience; it's a significant detriment to my physical and mental health. I desperately need help and hope this can be resolved soon. This isn't just about discomfort—it's about being able to live my life, care for my children, and find some semblance of normalcy and relief from this unending pain.

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Responses

Response from Neil Doverty, Executive Director Fiona Stanley and Fremantle Hospitals Group, South Metropolitan Health Service 11 months ago
Neil Doverty
Executive Director Fiona Stanley and Fremantle Hospitals Group,
South Metropolitan Health Service
Submitted on 19/06/2024 at 5:28 PM
Published on Care Opinion Australia on 20/06/2024 at 8:48 AM


picture of Neil Doverty

Dear Inpain95,

I am so sorry to hear of your distress and frustration whilst waiting to be seen for an initial appointment. Demand for this service is high, however, I would like to assure you that our staff are working extremely hard to see patients on the waiting list.

Without your specific details it is difficult for me to know the exact reason why your appointment has not yet been scheduled

I would therefore encourage you to contact our Patient and Family Liaison Office on (08) 6152 4013 (Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 4.30 pm) or via email anytime: FSHFeedback@health.wa.gov.au.

Once we have your personal details, the relevant team will be able to provide more information to you regarding your appointment.

Once again, I am sorry that you are feeling upset and in pain. I do understand how frustrating waiting for surgery must be, so please do get in touch.

Thank you for reaching out.

Neil Doverty

Group Executive Director

Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospitals Group.

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Update posted by Inpain95 (the patient)

I followed Neil's direction, no support besides checking my profile was provided. I was told to contact my GP...nothing can be done. Very disappointed.

Response from Neil Doverty, Executive Director Fiona Stanley and Fremantle Hospitals Group, South Metropolitan Health Service 11 months ago
Neil Doverty
Executive Director Fiona Stanley and Fremantle Hospitals Group,
South Metropolitan Health Service
Submitted on 28/06/2024 at 5:42 PM
Published on Care Opinion Australia on 1/07/2024 at 11:34 AM


picture of Neil Doverty

Dear Inpain95,

I can only apologise for the frustration that you must be feeling. The advice provided by FSH PFLS is around the fact that the procedure you require is classed as elective I.e. not an emergency, however the particular surgery required is classed as an “Excluded” procedure. This means that as FSH is a public hospital that provides elective surgery procedures, the hospital is required to obtain review of your case and documented approval from the Hospital Executive. In some instances, the WA Health Chief Medical Officer’s approval is required. Having said this, unfortunately, due to the waitlist for this department, this will involve waiting for your appointment alongside many other patients.

The advice around contacting your GP is if your symptoms are worsening, your GP can then escalate to the hospital for a review of your case. However, this doesn’t always result in being seen earlier, as ultimately it is the clinician’s decision around patient review and care.

Kind regards,

Neil Doverty

Group Executive Director

Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospitals Group.

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