Since NA has in theory been approved in the UK (since February/March), does anyone know of anyone performing the procedure yet, or at least whether they are undergoing training? I am always surprised that other British visitors to the site do not seem to ask the question, because surely that is our aim - to get the procedure up and running here.

Malcolm,

At last a reply from the UK! Thanks - I was beginning to wonder what was happening! I am not aware of anybody who performs NA in the UK, but I keep hoping, particularly as I may need it again this year, or next year at the very latest. It really can be quite an expensive business going to France (travel-wise I mean), the treatment is so reasonably priced it is incredible.
I do not know if private health insurance will cover NA, but the first step will be to find someone who offers it!
Can anybody else shed some light on the situation?

Christine,

You seem to have some inside knowledge. How does one go about contacting Primary Care trust? How long has the NHS paid for this treatment in France? Does it include the travel costs? This is really interesting information. Thanks.

Sara
The PCT has the contract for GPs and commissions health services for its residents. It can commission wherever it likes, including France. There is also I think a new EU right that you can seek treatment in other EU countries etc
Phone up the PALS (patient advice and liaison Officer) officer in your local PCT (normally cover the same areas as the local authoirty)- You can mention Patient Choice which is a Govt initiative. Mention the NICE guidelines because that makes it clear that it is a safe and effective treatment and will be a lot cheaper than for them than an inpatient stay.
Good luck

Hi Sara

I was interested to hear about PALS etc. Having delayed
surgical treatment in the UK for (probably) too long - left little finger VERY bent, I heard of NA and went ahead. By the time I had appointments (with Dr Badois) finger bent a little more - made it more difficult for him (and more painful for me) The problem, I think, is that surgeons in UK won't operate at a time when NA is most appropiate - I won't make that mistake again (I accept there will be an again)

As for time/cost to Paris - I live near Manchester, and have been over 3 times this year - little finger on both hands (2 treatments for the left one)

Cost for 1 treatment under £100 for everything (flight, airport parking, RER into Paris and the treatment at Hopital Lariboisiere - 33.68 euros - etc) Being a tightwad I took a flask and sandwiches (the hospital has a sunny courtyard for lunch - popular with all)

Left home 5.30am and back by 7.30pm!

When I think about how much my sister's spent on private sugery over here - to little apparent effect)

Good luck

Richard