Katy, a woman in her late 70s or early 80s, recently shared her experience with the Neurology department at Royal Preston Hospital and her story raises concerns about delays and communication in specialist care.
Her journey began after a local eye test led to a referral to ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat), where she was advised to have a brain scan. Although she was hesitant, she went ahead with the scan, which revealed a mass at the base/rear of her brain.
In October 2024, she was referred via a two-week cancer pathway to the Neurology department at Royal Preston Hospital, part of Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. As months passed with no communication about an appointment her family grew concerned.
By January 2025, nearly three months later, Katy still hadn’t heard anything. Her daughter stepped in, contacting both the ENT referring centre and her GP practice. Both parties sent emails to Royal Preston Hospital to follow up on the missing referral. Thanks to her daughter’s persistence, an appointment was finally arranged.
Katy was seen in February 2025, during a period of severe storms. Despite being advised not to travel, she felt she couldn’t miss the appointment and made the journey. Luckily the roads were quiet and parking was easy due to the weather.
During the appointment, the neurosurgeon confirmed that since she was asymptomatic, they would monitor her condition. She was asked to undergo another MRI scan. Katy arranged to have this done in Kendal to avoid further travel, which the neurosurgeon agreed to, though it would mean a longer wait.
Despite eventually receiving care, Katy says she does not feel confident in the Royal Preston Hospital neurology department, largely due to the lack of timely communication and delays in her referral.
Had issues with Neurology care or communication?
Katy’s story highlights how crucial timely care and clear communication are, especially when patients are referred under urgent pathways.
If you’ve had a similar experience with delayed referrals, missed appointments or lack of updates from specialist departments, we want to hear from you.
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