About this episode
In this powerful episode, Gill Phillips chats with her long-time friend Dorothy Hall, a former social worker and fierce advocate for fairness. They explore the realities of ageism in healthcare.At 82 and a half, Dorothy brings a wealth of lived experience—as a professional, a family carer, and now as someone navigating the NHS as an older person.She highlights the stark contrast between systems that dismiss patients based on age and those that embrace co-production and shared decision-making. Dorothy shares two shocking yet inspiring stories:How she was abruptly denied essential treatment for a genetic condition upon turning 80—without warning, discussion, or a clear clinical rationaleHer journey to access an innovative light therapy treatment for macular degeneration, which remains largely unknown and unavailable on the NHS despite its life-changing potentialInstead of accepting the system’s failings, Dorothy took matters into her own hands—seeking a second opinion, finding more compassionate healthcare providers, and ultimately reclaiming control over her own care.Lemon lightbulbs ???? Co-production doesn’t stop at 80 - see the person? Healthcare should be about needs, not numbers – age alone should never determine whether someone gets treatment? Patients shouldn’t have to be experts in NICE guidelines or fight for info? Don’t push people into complaints—listen first – most patients don’t want a fight, they just want fair treatment? The complaints process takes a huge toll on people? Empathy transforms healthcare? Joint decision-making rocks!? Short-term cuts create long-term costs – and unnecessary suffering? Rigid NHS systems fail real people – bureaucratic barriers, arbitrary cut-offs, and poor communication leave people helpless? Being 'outside the system' can be a nightmare? Seek a second opinion? Vision loss is life-changing - NHS should embrace this proven, non-invasive macular degeneration preventative treatment? It’s not just about vision - age-related sight loss affects independence, mobility and mental health? Patient advocacy is powerful – knowing your rights, pushing back, and seeking alternatives can change everything? Honest communication matters!!!Links:Encouraging results from light therapy study for dry age-related macular degeneration - study published by the Macular Society #WIGO - When I Get Old campaign - Gill Phillips chats w
