28th Feb 2012
FREE AT THE POINT OF ACCESS.
Normally
I would have walked up Trafalgar Street without a worry. Today – a few breaks
were needed to catch my breath. With no chance of an appointment at my GP I
decided to use the Queens Road Health Clinic, Brighton and see someone quickly.
An hour or so later I had my five minutes of fame – the amount of time the
nurse has to hear my story. It would be five minutes if you didn’t keep
interrupting me and let me tell you my problem. After a quick physical examination
he disappeared- “back in a few minutes”.
He came back with the calming news- an ambulance is on
the way. (Start to panic). “We don’t want you collapsing when you are walking
up the hill.” (Another chance to panic) Two Paramedics arrive – (more panic).
We have to take you to the ambulance in a chair – (more panic). And still I am
having problems breathing – until they plugged me into the oxygen. Nice. The
Royal Sussex County Hospital Accident and Emergency Department – very busy place,
so join the line. As I lay there on the stretcher enjoying the corridor lights
in pain and breathless – I thought, all those tests, injections, blood samples,
ultrasound, serious but dedicated people marching around (lots of them) and no
one has asked for my credit card. My ability to pay America was not an issue.
My need for my health problem to be sorted was paramount. First step is lots of
antibiotics – which make me initially, feel worse. – Why?
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