Experience of the public health system
Jul 29th 2005, 2:45 pm
#1
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Experience of the public health system
hi guys
I haven't posted for ages on here but thought I'd let you all know about my recent experiences with the public health system here in Perth.
I was originally diagnosed with breast cancer whilst pregnant with my son in 2000 whilst still in the UK. When we moved to Perth I was referred to Royal Perth hospital so they could do the follow up appointments etc. They have been fantastic, in fact they tested me so regularly I was sick of having tests done. Anyway long story short, I was at one of my regular appointments in May when they rediagnosed my with breast cancer AGAIN!
I honestly can't recommend them highly enough. They recommended a course of action that I didn't want/agree with, but they actually listened to what I had to say and treated me accordingly. I have just come out of hospital (they let me come home the same day) where the care I received was second to none and I have nothing but praise for the staff at RPH.
I'm gearing up for an arguement with the oncologist as I really don't want chemotherapy again and he's not a happy bunny about that, but I think I'll cross that bridge when I get to it!!
I can't understand why people make such a fuss about private health cover, as it was never something I had in the UK and I (up to now) haven't had any complaints about the public health system here. Perhaps if the health problem isnt' acute then maybe the waiting lists are long and it's worth having the private cover I don't know. But I just thought I'd let you all know that the public system (in my personal experience) was great! So if you can't afford the full health cover then don't worry. We did take out the ancillary cover (which covers for ambulance, eyecare, teeth etc) as this usually ends up expensive however and is definitely worth having!
love sophia xxx
I haven't posted for ages on here but thought I'd let you all know about my recent experiences with the public health system here in Perth.
I was originally diagnosed with breast cancer whilst pregnant with my son in 2000 whilst still in the UK. When we moved to Perth I was referred to Royal Perth hospital so they could do the follow up appointments etc. They have been fantastic, in fact they tested me so regularly I was sick of having tests done. Anyway long story short, I was at one of my regular appointments in May when they rediagnosed my with breast cancer AGAIN!
I honestly can't recommend them highly enough. They recommended a course of action that I didn't want/agree with, but they actually listened to what I had to say and treated me accordingly. I have just come out of hospital (they let me come home the same day) where the care I received was second to none and I have nothing but praise for the staff at RPH.
I'm gearing up for an arguement with the oncologist as I really don't want chemotherapy again and he's not a happy bunny about that, but I think I'll cross that bridge when I get to it!!
I can't understand why people make such a fuss about private health cover, as it was never something I had in the UK and I (up to now) haven't had any complaints about the public health system here. Perhaps if the health problem isnt' acute then maybe the waiting lists are long and it's worth having the private cover I don't know. But I just thought I'd let you all know that the public system (in my personal experience) was great! So if you can't afford the full health cover then don't worry. We did take out the ancillary cover (which covers for ambulance, eyecare, teeth etc) as this usually ends up expensive however and is definitely worth having!
love sophia xxx
Jul 29th 2005, 2:50 pm
#2
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 1,347
Re: Experience of the public health system
Originally Posted by sophia
hi guys
I haven't posted for ages on here but thought I'd let you all know about my recent experiences with the public health system here in Perth.
I was originally diagnosed with breast cancer whilst pregnant with my son in 2000 whilst still in the UK. When we moved to Perth I was referred to Royal Perth hospital so they could do the follow up appointments etc. They have been fantastic, in fact they tested me so regularly I was sick of having tests done. Anyway long story short, I was at one of my regular appointments in May when they rediagnosed my with breast cancer AGAIN!
I honestly can't recommend them highly enough. They recommended a course of action that I didn't want/agree with, but they actually listened to what I had to say and treated me accordingly. I have just come out of hospital (they let me come home the same day) where the care I received was second to none and I have nothing but praise for the staff at RPH.
I'm gearing up for an arguement with the oncologist as I really don't want chemotherapy again and he's not a happy bunny about that, but I think I'll cross that bridge when I get to it!!
I can't understand why people make such a fuss about private health cover, as it was never something I had in the UK and I (up to now) haven't had any complaints about the public health system here. Perhaps if the health problem isnt' acute then maybe the waiting lists are long and it's worth having the private cover I don't know. But I just thought I'd let you all know that the public system (in my personal experience) was great! So if you can't afford the full health cover then don't worry. We did take out the ancillary cover (which covers for ambulance, eyecare, teeth etc) as this usually ends up expensive however and is definitely worth having!
love sophia xxx
I haven't posted for ages on here but thought I'd let you all know about my recent experiences with the public health system here in Perth.
I was originally diagnosed with breast cancer whilst pregnant with my son in 2000 whilst still in the UK. When we moved to Perth I was referred to Royal Perth hospital so they could do the follow up appointments etc. They have been fantastic, in fact they tested me so regularly I was sick of having tests done. Anyway long story short, I was at one of my regular appointments in May when they rediagnosed my with breast cancer AGAIN!
I honestly can't recommend them highly enough. They recommended a course of action that I didn't want/agree with, but they actually listened to what I had to say and treated me accordingly. I have just come out of hospital (they let me come home the same day) where the care I received was second to none and I have nothing but praise for the staff at RPH.
I'm gearing up for an arguement with the oncologist as I really don't want chemotherapy again and he's not a happy bunny about that, but I think I'll cross that bridge when I get to it!!
I can't understand why people make such a fuss about private health cover, as it was never something I had in the UK and I (up to now) haven't had any complaints about the public health system here. Perhaps if the health problem isnt' acute then maybe the waiting lists are long and it's worth having the private cover I don't know. But I just thought I'd let you all know that the public system (in my personal experience) was great! So if you can't afford the full health cover then don't worry. We did take out the ancillary cover (which covers for ambulance, eyecare, teeth etc) as this usually ends up expensive however and is definitely worth having!
love sophia xxx
Jul 29th 2005, 2:53 pm
#3
Dutch expat/Aus citizen
Joined: Apr 2003
Location: South East, Perth (was Holland)
Posts: 5,789
Re: Experience of the public health system
OMG! Can't believe you got it again!
So what are you going to do if not chemo?!
All the best to you, good luck, don't know what to say!
You got through it once, and will again, that's for sure!!!
xx
Simone
So what are you going to do if not chemo?!
All the best to you, good luck, don't know what to say!
You got through it once, and will again, that's for sure!!!
xx
Simone
Jul 29th 2005, 3:03 pm
#4
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Re: Experience of the public health system
Originally Posted by Simone
OMG! Can't believe you got it again!
So what are you going to do if not chemo?!
All the best to you, good luck, don't know what to say!
You got through it once, and will again, that's for sure!!!
xx
Simone
So what are you going to do if not chemo?!
All the best to you, good luck, don't know what to say!
You got through it once, and will again, that's for sure!!!
xx
Simone
I know just how rubbish is that hey? You wouldn't believe it would you. And I'm probably more annoyed that I STILL didn't make the news a la Kylie!! LMAO!
Anyway, I don't want chemo cos it really screwed my body up last time and it's still come back so it clearly hasn't worked! And I've got a FANTASTIC team of friends who are homoeopaths, naturopaths, ayurvedic practitioners and of course there is the yoga. And I'm almost vegan now and juicing like nobodys business.
The good thing is that there is no signs of cancer anywhere else in my body so I feel I've got plenty of time to treat my body holistically this time, especially as the tumour doesn't appear to be as aggressive as the last time. Hey ho, here we go again!!
Thanks for your good wishes Simone!!
love Sophia xxx
Jul 29th 2005, 3:38 pm
#5
Forum Regular
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 68
Re: Experience of the public health system
Originally Posted by sophia
hi guys
I haven't posted for ages on here but thought I'd let you all know about my recent experiences with the public health system here in Perth.
I was originally diagnosed with breast cancer whilst pregnant with my son in 2000 whilst still in the UK. When we moved to Perth I was referred to Royal Perth hospital so they could do the follow up appointments etc. They have been fantastic, in fact they tested me so regularly I was sick of having tests done. Anyway long story short, I was at one of my regular appointments in May when they rediagnosed my with breast cancer AGAIN!
I honestly can't recommend them highly enough. They recommended a course of action that I didn't want/agree with, but they actually listened to what I had to say and treated me accordingly. I have just come out of hospital (they let me come home the same day) where the care I received was second to none and I have nothing but praise for the staff at RPH.
I'm gearing up for an arguement with the oncologist as I really don't want chemotherapy again and he's not a happy bunny about that, but I think I'll cross that bridge when I get to it!!
I can't understand why people make such a fuss about private health cover, as it was never something I had in the UK and I (up to now) haven't had any complaints about the public health system here. Perhaps if the health problem isnt' acute then maybe the waiting lists are long and it's worth having the private cover I don't know. But I just thought I'd let you all know that the public system (in my personal experience) was great! So if you can't afford the full health cover then don't worry. We did take out the ancillary cover (which covers for ambulance, eyecare, teeth etc) as this usually ends up expensive however and is definitely worth having!
love sophia xxx
I haven't posted for ages on here but thought I'd let you all know about my recent experiences with the public health system here in Perth.
I was originally diagnosed with breast cancer whilst pregnant with my son in 2000 whilst still in the UK. When we moved to Perth I was referred to Royal Perth hospital so they could do the follow up appointments etc. They have been fantastic, in fact they tested me so regularly I was sick of having tests done. Anyway long story short, I was at one of my regular appointments in May when they rediagnosed my with breast cancer AGAIN!
I honestly can't recommend them highly enough. They recommended a course of action that I didn't want/agree with, but they actually listened to what I had to say and treated me accordingly. I have just come out of hospital (they let me come home the same day) where the care I received was second to none and I have nothing but praise for the staff at RPH.
I'm gearing up for an arguement with the oncologist as I really don't want chemotherapy again and he's not a happy bunny about that, but I think I'll cross that bridge when I get to it!!
I can't understand why people make such a fuss about private health cover, as it was never something I had in the UK and I (up to now) haven't had any complaints about the public health system here. Perhaps if the health problem isnt' acute then maybe the waiting lists are long and it's worth having the private cover I don't know. But I just thought I'd let you all know that the public system (in my personal experience) was great! So if you can't afford the full health cover then don't worry. We did take out the ancillary cover (which covers for ambulance, eyecare, teeth etc) as this usually ends up expensive however and is definitely worth having!
love sophia xxx
Listen I don't know what to say. Your courage and determination puts life in perspective. My thoughts and wishes are with you and your family. You have beaten this before you can do it again.
best wishes xxx
Jul 30th 2005, 1:55 pm
#6
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Joined: Mar 2003
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Posts: 876
Re: Experience of the public health system
Originally Posted by sophia
hi guys
I haven't posted for ages on here but thought I'd let you all know about my recent experiences with the public health system here in Perth.
I was originally diagnosed with breast cancer whilst pregnant with my son in 2000 whilst still in the UK. When we moved to Perth I was referred to Royal Perth hospital so they could do the follow up appointments etc. They have been fantastic, in fact they tested me so regularly I was sick of having tests done. Anyway long story short, I was at one of my regular appointments in May when they rediagnosed my with breast cancer AGAIN!
I honestly can't recommend them highly enough. They recommended a course of action that I didn't want/agree with, but they actually listened to what I had to say and treated me accordingly. I have just come out of hospital (they let me come home the same day) where the care I received was second to none and I have nothing but praise for the staff at RPH.
I'm gearing up for an arguement with the oncologist as I really don't want chemotherapy again and he's not a happy bunny about that, but I think I'll cross that bridge when I get to it!!
I can't understand why people make such a fuss about private health cover, as it was never something I had in the UK and I (up to now) haven't had any complaints about the public health system here. Perhaps if the health problem isnt' acute then maybe the waiting lists are long and it's worth having the private cover I don't know. But I just thought I'd let you all know that the public system (in my personal experience) was great! So if you can't afford the full health cover then don't worry. We did take out the ancillary cover (which covers for ambulance, eyecare, teeth etc) as this usually ends up expensive however and is definitely worth having!
love sophia xxx
I haven't posted for ages on here but thought I'd let you all know about my recent experiences with the public health system here in Perth.
I was originally diagnosed with breast cancer whilst pregnant with my son in 2000 whilst still in the UK. When we moved to Perth I was referred to Royal Perth hospital so they could do the follow up appointments etc. They have been fantastic, in fact they tested me so regularly I was sick of having tests done. Anyway long story short, I was at one of my regular appointments in May when they rediagnosed my with breast cancer AGAIN!
I honestly can't recommend them highly enough. They recommended a course of action that I didn't want/agree with, but they actually listened to what I had to say and treated me accordingly. I have just come out of hospital (they let me come home the same day) where the care I received was second to none and I have nothing but praise for the staff at RPH.
I'm gearing up for an arguement with the oncologist as I really don't want chemotherapy again and he's not a happy bunny about that, but I think I'll cross that bridge when I get to it!!
I can't understand why people make such a fuss about private health cover, as it was never something I had in the UK and I (up to now) haven't had any complaints about the public health system here. Perhaps if the health problem isnt' acute then maybe the waiting lists are long and it's worth having the private cover I don't know. But I just thought I'd let you all know that the public system (in my personal experience) was great! So if you can't afford the full health cover then don't worry. We did take out the ancillary cover (which covers for ambulance, eyecare, teeth etc) as this usually ends up expensive however and is definitely worth having!
love sophia xxx
really feel crap for you getting it back again but you have such a positive outlook that am sure you will be ok, keep us updated.
Also on the public side of health service here, I agree and have experienced nothing but good service, and with how they've dealt with you is testament enough.
Take care
Teresa xx
Jul 30th 2005, 11:11 pm
#7
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Joined: Sep 2002
Location: Ilukapool. WA
Posts: 12,467
Re: Experience of the public health system
Sophia,
Good post. Wishing you all the beast for whatever treatment you decide is best.
Good post. Wishing you all the beast for whatever treatment you decide is best.
Jul 30th 2005, 11:58 pm
#8
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Joined: Jul 2003
Location: Cairns
Posts: 3,918
Re: Experience of the public health system
Thanks for sharing. Sending you positive thoughts and wishing you all the best. x 
Jul 31st 2005, 12:17 am
#9
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Location: Manchester-Sydney August 07 and maybe Brisbane or Melbourne 08
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Re: Experience of the public health system
Originally Posted by steandleigh
Thanks for sharing. Sending you positive thoughts and wishing you all the best. x
I havent encountered ozzie private or public health yet, but i know one thing for certain.
When i had 2 brain ops and a heart valve replacement (3 yrs ago, when i was 30) the staff were ok, did there jobs well, but when i was really scared and inquisitive and asked most of the nurses from the uk/asian countries, they just said that it was all proceedure and to ask the specialist about it. The specialist said it was just proceedure too!
There was 2 australian nurses and they were fantastic. They knew answers to all the questions that i had, seemed to have a real passion for the job, and took the time to explain things away to me so as to make me feel at ease, and i remember saying that if i were ever ill again id like it to be in australia, as they seemed to care more and make more time, which is exactly what i needed as i was scared i was dying(which i was) and wanted to know answers to make me have inner strength than to be brushed off with a standard response..
My heart goes out to you, and i think you will be in the best hands there.
Ps, is there any MRSA in hospitals there to as its rife in england.
alk
Jul 31st 2005, 4:50 am
#10
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Joined: May 2004
Location: Sydney, NSW.
Posts: 882
Re: Experience of the public health system
You sound like a very positive person , very strong and confident and I wish you the all the best in maintaining your courage.
I hope your desicions and perserverance give you the right outcome.
Take care,
Tass.
I hope your desicions and perserverance give you the right outcome.
Take care,
Tass.
Jul 31st 2005, 4:51 am
#11
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Joined: May 2004
Location: Sydney, NSW.
Posts: 882
Re: Experience of the public health system
oops ! Just sent you some anon. karma !
Aug 1st 2005, 7:46 am
#12
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Posts: 917
Re: Experience of the public health system
Originally Posted by alkristensen
My god, you are brave. Attitude like yours is rare. Good on you for whatevewr you decide, and good luck with it.
I havent encountered ozzie private or public health yet, but i know one thing for certain.
When i had 2 brain ops and a heart valve replacement (3 yrs ago, when i was 30) the staff were ok, did there jobs well, but when i was really scared and inquisitive and asked most of the nurses from the uk/asian countries, they just said that it was all proceedure and to ask the specialist about it. The specialist said it was just proceedure too!
There was 2 australian nurses and they were fantastic. They knew answers to all the questions that i had, seemed to have a real passion for the job, and took the time to explain things away to me so as to make me feel at ease, and i remember saying that if i were ever ill again id like it to be in australia, as they seemed to care more and make more time, which is exactly what i needed as i was scared i was dying(which i was) and wanted to know answers to make me have inner strength than to be brushed off with a standard response..
My heart goes out to you, and i think you will be in the best hands there.
Ps, is there any MRSA in hospitals there to as its rife in england.
alk
I havent encountered ozzie private or public health yet, but i know one thing for certain.
When i had 2 brain ops and a heart valve replacement (3 yrs ago, when i was 30) the staff were ok, did there jobs well, but when i was really scared and inquisitive and asked most of the nurses from the uk/asian countries, they just said that it was all proceedure and to ask the specialist about it. The specialist said it was just proceedure too!
There was 2 australian nurses and they were fantastic. They knew answers to all the questions that i had, seemed to have a real passion for the job, and took the time to explain things away to me so as to make me feel at ease, and i remember saying that if i were ever ill again id like it to be in australia, as they seemed to care more and make more time, which is exactly what i needed as i was scared i was dying(which i was) and wanted to know answers to make me have inner strength than to be brushed off with a standard response..
My heart goes out to you, and i think you will be in the best hands there.
Ps, is there any MRSA in hospitals there to as its rife in england.
alk
Alk Wow, now that's a lot to deal with in one go hey? you poor love, I hope you're well on the way to a full recovery.
The nursing staff are wonderful here, I honestly can't speak highly enough of them. There are lots of UK nursing staff here too and they are also wonderful! I have to laugh though, cos one of my breast care nurses is the absolute image of Kath of Kath & Kim fame, I find it very hard to keep a straight face whilst she's being all serious and trying to discuss important stuff with me!! LMAO!!
I would have no hesitation in recommending Royal Perth breast clinic and oncology department.
As for MRSA, they don't seem to have heard of it over here, but they do have something called "golden staph" which I'm pretty sure is a similar if not equally nasty little bug.
love Sophia xxxx
Aug 1st 2005, 8:54 am
#13
Forum Regular
Joined: Jan 2005
Location: Torquay - Victoria
Posts: 94
Re: Experience of the public health system
Hi Sophie,
We haven’t spoken before, however I felt I had to respond to you warm and uplifting post. I just wanted to say thanks for your thoughts, they were very honest, open and strong – you go girl! I wish you all the best for the future. However I know you will pull through this, with an attitude like yours, great nurses to look after you and a healthy eating plan you are on a sure path to being well and health once again.
Take care, big hugs and good luck you little fighter!
Love
Janine
xx
We haven’t spoken before, however I felt I had to respond to you warm and uplifting post. I just wanted to say thanks for your thoughts, they were very honest, open and strong – you go girl! I wish you all the best for the future. However I know you will pull through this, with an attitude like yours, great nurses to look after you and a healthy eating plan you are on a sure path to being well and health once again.
Take care, big hugs and good luck you little fighter!
Love
Janine
xx
Aug 1st 2005, 9:33 am
#14
Hot and sweaty member!!
Joined: Apr 2002
Location: WA I think!
Posts: 2,031
Re: Experience of the public health system
Hi Sophia,
Crap mate as I am....didnt ring you to check...I am apologising on here publically!!
Glad you are ok hun...speak soon eh?
Yvsie
xxxxx
Crap mate as I am....didnt ring you to check...I am apologising on here publically!!
Glad you are ok hun...speak soon eh?
Yvsie
xxxxx
Aug 1st 2005, 10:16 am
#15
Member of Mumo-land
Joined: Oct 2003
Location: DownUnder
Posts: 771
Re: Experience of the public health system
Originally Posted by sophia
hi guys
I haven't posted for ages on here but thought I'd let you all know about my recent experiences with the public health system here in Perth.
I was originally diagnosed with breast cancer whilst pregnant with my son in 2000 whilst still in the UK. When we moved to Perth I was referred to Royal Perth hospital so they could do the follow up appointments etc. They have been fantastic, in fact they tested me so regularly I was sick of having tests done. Anyway long story short, I was at one of my regular appointments in May when they rediagnosed my with breast cancer AGAIN!
I honestly can't recommend them highly enough. They recommended a course of action that I didn't want/agree with, but they actually listened to what I had to say and treated me accordingly. I have just come out of hospital (they let me come home the same day) where the care I received was second to none and I have nothing but praise for the staff at RPH.
I'm gearing up for an arguement with the oncologist as I really don't want chemotherapy again and he's not a happy bunny about that, but I think I'll cross that bridge when I get to it!!
I can't understand why people make such a fuss about private health cover, as it was never something I had in the UK and I (up to now) haven't had any complaints about the public health system here. Perhaps if the health problem isnt' acute then maybe the waiting lists are long and it's worth having the private cover I don't know. But I just thought I'd let you all know that the public system (in my personal experience) was great! So if you can't afford the full health cover then don't worry. We did take out the ancillary cover (which covers for ambulance, eyecare, teeth etc) as this usually ends up expensive however and is definitely worth having!
love sophia xxx
I haven't posted for ages on here but thought I'd let you all know about my recent experiences with the public health system here in Perth.
I was originally diagnosed with breast cancer whilst pregnant with my son in 2000 whilst still in the UK. When we moved to Perth I was referred to Royal Perth hospital so they could do the follow up appointments etc. They have been fantastic, in fact they tested me so regularly I was sick of having tests done. Anyway long story short, I was at one of my regular appointments in May when they rediagnosed my with breast cancer AGAIN!
I honestly can't recommend them highly enough. They recommended a course of action that I didn't want/agree with, but they actually listened to what I had to say and treated me accordingly. I have just come out of hospital (they let me come home the same day) where the care I received was second to none and I have nothing but praise for the staff at RPH.
I'm gearing up for an arguement with the oncologist as I really don't want chemotherapy again and he's not a happy bunny about that, but I think I'll cross that bridge when I get to it!!
I can't understand why people make such a fuss about private health cover, as it was never something I had in the UK and I (up to now) haven't had any complaints about the public health system here. Perhaps if the health problem isnt' acute then maybe the waiting lists are long and it's worth having the private cover I don't know. But I just thought I'd let you all know that the public system (in my personal experience) was great! So if you can't afford the full health cover then don't worry. We did take out the ancillary cover (which covers for ambulance, eyecare, teeth etc) as this usually ends up expensive however and is definitely worth having!
love sophia xxx
I've found Oz healthcare to be good too. OH had heart scare and Impretty sure that in teh UK he would have waited for tests for months on end worrying. As it turned out he was okay and it was all sorted in 6 weeks flat.
Went to A & E with dislocated toe once and waited ages but if you have to wait ages for something minor like that and they give you such good care for themajor stuff, why worry?
I'm in NZ these days and can't say I have the same confidence but life's a lottery.
Get well.