ON the door of the chiropody room of the Larkhill Health Centre, Blackburn, there is a large notice which is fast becoming permanent, stating that in the last month, 352 patients failed to keep their appointments, which meant that 67 hours of treatment were wasted.

I find this notice objectionable. Of course, if it is accurate, it is regrettable as we should all try to keep appointments.

However, I believe that it is somewhat misleading. It implies that it refers to the area covered by the Larkhill chiropodist, when probably it includes the whole of the Communicate NHS Trust area which, in turn, probably includes that of Blackburn, Hyndburn and Ribble Valley Health Authority.

The great majority of chiropody patients are elderly, many in poor health and when they have need of a chiropodist, they also have painful feet. Many do not have their own transport, and some live alone.

All in all, it is tempting for them to delay their visit until they are feeling better. I myself have missed two appointments recently due to ill health.

At the earliest opportunity, I rang the service, explained my situation and apologised.

In no way am I criticising the chiropodists: it is probably an over-zealous administrator who is responsible. Might I suggest a little humanity and discretion on their part? We are not digits but fallible human beings in the twilight of life.

Perhaps also a closer look could be given to the possibility of more strategic home visits, mini-bus transport or closer appointment schedules.

KEN BUTLER, Haston Lee Avenue, Blackburn.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.