To expect PALS (Patient Advice and Liaison Service) to respond within one week?

They used to respond to all e mails with a standard reply, so at least you knew your e mail had been received and they would endeavour to respond fully within three days. In fact, within their limited remit, I have always found them very helpful.

I e mailed last Tuesday, followed it up on Friday, and telephoned yesterday. They were on voicemail so I left a message, but still nothing.

I have a long history of appalling service from this hospital and now I cannot get a very important test done because the kit they need has been recalled and it seems to be open ended as to when they will get some more! I may need to postpone my next consultant?s appointment because of this, so I need someone to find out what the time scale really is, but unless someone will respond to me I just don?t know.

I am not well anyway and carp like this just makes me even more stressed!