I wasn't sure of the actual terminology but ChatGPT suggests these fixed groups of hospitals/areas are NHS Trusts, so I'll use that term from now on.
Long story short, I saw a rheumatologist in Trust A (my local) privately. I was then moved to the NHS to continue treatment with the same doctor. The doctor primarily works at Trust B but does specific days at Trust A and always arranges my less frequent physical appointments there, which I'm grateful for. I didn't request this but I'm nonetheless grateful if my travel times were taken into account.
However, in the past I've had my blood tests done locally only to be told by my doctor that they'd really prefer it if I didn't because they're separate trusts and communication between the two isn't always great. So I need to travel to Trust B areas to get blood tests done.
I looked around and found a place that's closer to me and resides within Trust B and it is really nice. Unfortunately, while they did take my blood, they said that they're only supposed to take blood from GP forms, not hospital forms, so it doesn't sound like I can go back there. The only two guaranteed places seemingly without issue are the two massive hospitals in Trust B.
If I could go anywhere in Trust A, I'd have ample options, lots of nice, quiet, close Community type hospitals. and easy parking.
The 2 main large Trust B hospitals are awful. Overcrowded, multi storey parking, and to top things off, major long term roadworks between me and them. It's fine as a one off, but this is for life, every 2-3 months, so I really would like to find a permanent, better solution. Since I've now discovered that I can't even travel to the outskirts of Trust B and have my blood taken somewhere more convenient, I'm not sure where to go from here.
Has anyone else been in this situation? Ideally, of course, I'd like to go locally, but I'm happy to go to Trust B Community hospitals but need to be reassured they won't just reject the hospital form next time!
Any suggestions please?
Thanks.