Many of you are fortunate in that you still have a mains only nebuliser provided by the NHS.
Recently though you have been telling us that with the current changes in the NHS you are struggling to keep up with the day to day details of just who is now responsible for the provision and maintenance of your unit. Where once it was your local Primary Care Trust it is now the Acute Hospital team and visa versa, and where access was local for servicing and replacement parts you now have to travel a greater distance, and in some cases during this period of transition no one is quite sure just who you can turn to.
As with everything new it is bound to take a while to settle down. On a local level why not try asking PALS, Patient Advice and Liaison Services, to help you wade through the minefield? They have many offices throughout the country as well as online support.
“The NHS employs over a million staff in thousands of locations. It is a large and complex organisation providing a broad range of services. It is not surprising that sometimes you or a loved one may feel bewildered or concerned when using the NHS. And this can be at times when you are feeling at your most vulnerable and anxious.
So, what should you do if you want on the spot help when using the health service? The NHS expects all members of staff to listen and respond to you to the best of their ability. But sometimes you may wish to talk to someone employed especially to help you. The Patient Advice and Liaison Service, known as PALS, has been introduced to ensure that the NHS listens to patients, their relatives, carers and friends, answers their questions and resolves their concerns as quickly as possible.”
There are many reasons why some of you prefer to buy your own and many questions for you to consider before you do. Your nurse or health professional may be able to guide you and there are lots of other independent voices just waiting to help. You could choose a nebuliser you are already familiar with or one which will enhance your lifestyle. Some units come complete with everything (apart from the medication) you may need for a whole year, where as others are perfect for those of you who only nebulise occasionally.
On the flip side we do speak to many NHS nebuliser providers and if it’s any consolation it’s as much a headache for them as for you. If you aren’t in a position where purchasing your own is an option, hang on in there, everyone is trying to resolve the issues as quickly as possible, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice, you can call us on 01942 701210 or email HERE..