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"Referral Cancelled Twice by the Central Referral System"

About: Department of Health WA

(as the patient),

I am an osteosarcoma survivor, and in 2005, I had a rib resection as part of my treatment. In July 2024, I started experiencing severe pain in the same area and followed the proper process through my GP. A CT scan initially suggested a possible recurrence of osteosarcoma. After further investigation, I was cleared of cancer, yet I have been left in constant pain with no answers or treatment plan.

Over the past seven months, I have seen four different specialists, yet I still have no diagnosis, no treatment plan, and no support. My referral for surgery in the public system has been cancelled twice without explanation, and I believe this may be because I saw a private doctor who was simply trying to help me.

I am now living with chronic pain every single day, ranging from 5 to 8 on the pain scale. I have tried eight different pain medications, all of which have given me severe side effects. I am 42 years old, I have a family, I run a business, and I am being forced to live in inhumane conditions because the system has failed me.

My ribs are literally caving in, and I have only several days until I see a thoracic surgeon in Perth. But I am terrified that, once again, I will not be heard and will be dismissed without the surgery I urgently need.

I understand that my case is complex and that this is not an easy surgery, but I also know that I deserve help. I have done everything I can to advocate for myself, but I cannot keep living like this. I would appreciate any guidance on what steps I need to take to ensure I receive the care I need.

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