"Referral process"

On a recent weekend, I became aware of distorted and blurred vision in my right eye, something I had suspected for a number of days.  I rang the local Medical Clinic to find they were closed until Monday morning. On that Monday, I rang the Clinic seeking an appointment that day only to be told they were fully booked.

I explained my situation and they referred me to the Hub (or I believe it is the Minor Illness and Injury Clinic - MIIC). All staff I spoke to at the Hub were friendly and professional and in a short time, I was seen by a doctor. On explaining I had blurred vision in one eye, the doctor advised that I need to see an Ophthalmologist. At no time did the doctor examine my eye/s or sight. They advised they were unable to write a referral and that I would need to see my GP for this - sooner rather than later.

I told the doctor that the local Clinic was fully booked but they made no further suggestions. I left the Clinic feeling very frustrated and worried.  On return home, I rang the Manager of the Hub and told them of my predicament and feelings. They explained the doctor was a Locum and unable to write referrals, a situation they acknowledged was not satisfactory and that management was looking into.

Later I received a call from the doctor concerned who offered to arrange an appt with a specialist in Wonthaggi the following day and write a referral. 

PS - the result is that I will most likely require surgery. 

I would be pleased if you would look into what I feel is a referral process problem and find a solution so that Phillip Islanders and others receive timely and appropriate treatment.