I am writing concerning the article ‘Patients run risk of being denied hip replacements’, August 1) This scandal deserves to be highlighted and efforts made to overturn the disgraceful and discriminatory denial of replacements by the Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group (OCCG) on weight grounds. Unfortunately although the Royal College of Surgeons has condemned the practice, local consultants are happy to fall in line and deny replacements to patients who have worked and contributed all their lives, condemning them to increasing pain, immobility and poor quality of life.

My wife Linda experienced their “care and concern” for nearly two years and by December 2013 was unable to drive, leave the house or get a decent night’s pain-free sleep.The consultant at the Nuffield Hospital and the chief executive Sir Jonathan Michael both trotted out the OCG mantra of the supposed increased risk for overweight patients – now debunked by the RCS.

They should immediately stand up and apologise to Linda and all the other patients denied this treatment.

Jacqueline Pearce-Jarvis should also be made aware that even if the score indicates need for treatment you won’t get it if you are considered overweight, no matter how desperate your situation.

Leo Catney, Glebelands, Headington

 

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