en 
I have had bladder cancer and had it removed by laser in the UK before I came to Portugal, and have to get checked once a year to make sure the cancer has not returned .
I went to the CDS in January and had an ultrasound arranged by my doctor, and was told that it’s not 100% accurate, and for me it would be better if I had a camera examination to be sure that the cancer has not come back. This is not done on the NHS here in Portugal so I went and had it done privately. On the photos taken of my bladder, there were a few red spots that needed a biopsy done because it might be the return of cancer.
I went back to the doctors at the CDS and told an urgent appointment will made for me at Faro Hospital and would take 92 days which was I thought very good with Covid.
But after 92 days no appointment, I went back to see the doctor and was told that no appointment had been made and to phone the hospital myself to chase up for the urgent appointment. The doctor said that he had requested an appointment and that’s all he could do for me.
I have tried to do this but can never get any further than the call being answered by the Hospital switchboard then put through to another extension number which is never answered and then I get cut off.
I think the NHS is very good here in Portugal and have the highest regard for them but despair that I might have the start of cancer back again and still I cannot get an urgent appointment.
Has anyone had the same happen and how did they get an urgent appointment ? Can any reader help?
Alan Munday,
By email
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Our neighbour has had the test you require at Faro public hospital within the last two years. Hecwas passing blood and went to emergency dept, taken in and had test. Operated on within one week
By Graham from Algarve on 18 Sep 2021, 16:09
Hi Alan. I also love Portugal. Have the most helpful people in the world, place is a gem. Except the The System. To get anything done here. Its like pulling theeth... Us Expat get treated like Dogs, If You happen to go there and dont speak the language, nor bring a translator with you. They make no effort to understand your situation. Specially the Office extension in Ferreiras and Albufeira. I had the same Situation. A I was giving a Doctor to contact. With no phone number or contact info just the name of the DR in Faro Hospistal to make an appointment. I wish I can show you my phone and my email. I been trying to Reach him since February 2021. He saw all my messages according to Whatsapp and Facebook messenger and Regular Messenger. To this day September 20th 2021, not one Phone call or Email nor message back. i went to Hospital to make my own appointment with him. I was told, he is not available they will call me back when they have an openning. Now were at the end of September 2021. Nothing! I wrote email, to CDS, I went there when my appointment is due Nothing. I ask for help to make an appointment for me. They say, I have to do it.... Been an Expat here in Portugal the System is not on ourside at all. I wish I can post Picture of my Legs. I went to the Emergency room at the Hospital I was told only my Doctor can make an appointment for me again. Am still waiting. Dont know what to do. But, take my pills and hoping my swelling and discoloration in my legs goes away. That was all due to a mental breakdown and now its getting worst. My Stress/Blood pressure are high. I have to keep taking S.O.S pill. I was rush to the Emergengy room again 2 weeks ago. Mild heart attack 2 twice now. I understand you pain.
By Rick Day from Algarve on 20 Sep 2021, 03:51
We are here 3.5 years and cannot seem to get anything done here. Camara are a total disgrace. Health system is awful. Only good part is the sun and food. Beurocracy here is scary beyond belief. We are leaving Portugal soon as we have had enough of the country.
By Tom Higgins from Lisbon on 21 Sep 2021, 14:31