Ok, I have a pass for entry in the STW hernia club (is that a thing).
Currently sore after having had an inguinal hernia repair last Thursday. My experience has so far been very positive.
Lump appeared about 6 weeks ago. Thought nothing of it until 4wks ago it got uncomfortable and started affecting my sleep. Took 10 days to get appointment with GP. She was great diagnosed suspected hernia and wrote me a referring letter to the surgeon at the local hospital that she knew was good.
At this point I pulled my private insurance card (working for a medical co. has it’s perks). Saw surgeon the following week she knew her stuff and diagnosed without a scan. Suggested if left it will get worse, it had by then stopped me running due to mild pain). Booked me in for open surgery the following week.
The NHS route would have been the same level of care (same surgeon and treatment) but with a wait of 3 weeks to see surgeon and a wait of up to 18 weeks for surgery. I assume the wait would have an increased risk of hernia getting worse and possibility of strangulated hernia which would have meant emergency surgery. Apart from time the only other difference was I got my own tv whilst waiting to be operated on.
Surgeon seemed to think I might even be able to do a gentle bike ride within the week. I think she is nuts and am aiming for driving the car again and walking the dog. Hope to be back on the bike gently within 4wks