I need an orthopaedic doctor

Week 9, 8 – 14 December 2011

This week, I was bothered by the loss of sensation in my right hand.  The thumb, index and middle fingers were going numb. My GP said it could be carpal tunnel syndrome and referred me to a specialist. However he was about to leave for Christmas holiday and the nurse needed to talk to him to see if he would see me. I called his practice every day and always got the same answer, which was: the nurse would talk to the specialist and then let me know the outcome.

Not hopeful that I could get an appointment with my GP referred specialist, I obtained a list of orthopaedic doctors in Launceston and called these practices one after one.  Some said they are fully booked until February or March next year.  Some insisted they had to have a GP referral letter before they would even indicate when the doctor could be available.

The numbness was interfering with my physio exercises and therefore I was keen to find out what was wrong and have the problem fixed.  Having exhausted the private system, I called the Orthopaedic Clinic at the Launceston General Hospital.  When I was discharged, I had a booking with the clinic for a review in January. The receptionist was very kind to advance my appointment to 21 December.  

The private medical system here sometimes seem to be way overrated and lack of efficiency, most importantly, lack of patient care. and if I can push it, humanity.

vickyinsydney 发表于 2012-6-14 09:40
The private medical system here sometimes seem to be way overrated and lack of efficiency, most impo ...

Before I migrated here in 2005, I was like most others had this false perception that Australia is a first world country (as it always claims itself to be in the world arena). However, the reality (at least in my opinion) is that the public system, hospital system and governance are like those in some third world countries. Some local friends told me that it is just Tasmania (and I do hope so). My husband is unwilling to move out of Tasmania and so I am kind of stuck here.

When I complained, my husband once said China is no better. I refuted: "at least China never claims itself a first world country. This country has to live up to its reputation". Anyway, just venting off some steam. Thanks for sharing.

I am looking forward to the next state government election. A change in the ruling party may bring some new thinking and hopefully promising changes.

rumor has it that the best medical system is in Cuba. :-)

vickyinsydney 发表于 2012-6-14 13:55
rumor has it that the best medical system is in Cuba. :-)

Thanks to Fidel Castro!