Linda Hand, a self-employed property surveyor from Stamford, found her life drastically affected due to severe hip pain and a protracted four-year waiting period for NHS surgery. At 58, she feared that her career was at an end, given that her profession’s physical demands such as climbing ladders and investigating loft spaces were becoming impossible. Linda voiced her anxiety, describing how her condition rendered her unable to work, drive, or walk, while experiencing financial burdens.
In an attempt to restore her previous life, Linda considered private healthcare alternatives, which led her to the Practice Plus Group’s hospital located in Barlborough, Derbyshire. Although this choice posed financial issues, Linda was able to undergo a total hip replacement. “We are not particularly affluent,” she acknowledged, “but I am incredibly relieved that I chose this path. I am currently recuperating well and feel like my old self once again.”
With her new hip, Linda can resume her work and hobbies, such as Padel, Pilates, and swimming, eliminating the waits she previously experienced with the NHS. Her experiences mirror the results of a study from Practice Plus Group, accentuating the detrimental impacts of chronic pain on employment and personal life. This research found a significant number of people, especially those in their fifties and sixties, who have had to cease work due to health concerns.
Jim Easton, CEO of Practice Plus Group, emphasised the critical need for accessible treatment options. He stated, “Chronic aches and pains harm the quality of life immensely. It’s vital to guarantee that people can access the care they require, whether it is through the NHS or affordable private alternatives.” Easton urges people to consider ‘patient choice’ initiatives to avoid prolonged hospital waiting times and advises comparing the costs of private healthcare as a potential avenue to retain earnings.
The challenges and eventual triumph of Linda’s healthcare journey underscore the urgent need to confront healthcare waiting times, offering a beacon of hope for those grappling with similar struggles.
This story was adapted from an original report by www.lincolnshirelive.co.uk by The Lincoln Post.
