Tony

Tony’s kidney impairment was picked up on a routine blood test. He was referred to a consultant at first but is now monitored monthly by his GP with whom he has a good relationship. He takes pills to control his blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Tony’s kidney impairment was first picked up on a routine test. He was referred to a specialist who considered inserting a plastic tube (stent) to widen the drainage tube (ureter) from one of his kidneys, but in discussion with the GP decided to treat the problem with medication instead. Tony takes aspirin and simvastatin and has tried a succession of different tablets to control his blood pressure, some of which disagreed with him. He had an adverse reaction to one drug, which made him feel dizzy and caused his kidney function to drop from 56 to 36 percent. Another drug gave him a dry mouth, which prevented him enjoying his food and drink. He now takes indapamide for his blood pressure and his kidney function has risen to 44 percent, which his GP is happy with. Tony is not expecting any further improvement and will be content for it to remain at its current level.

Tony has tests done every month. The GP tests his urine and blood pressure, and Tony goes to the pharmacy department of his local ASDA supermarket to have a blood sample taken, which he finds convenient as there is no need to book an appointment in advance and the waiting time is usually short. Tony obtains the results from the GP next time he goes to the surgery, or if something needs attention the GP will contact him sooner. The GP provides him with a graph showing changes in the level of his kidney function over time. He has a good, trusting relationship with the GP and all the staff he comes into contact with.

Tony was completely well until he reached age 70, after which he developed several health problems in a short space of time. In addition to his high blood pressure and kidney impairment, he has been treated for bowel cancer and an aneurysm and is currently having three-monthly injections for prostate cancer. He feels well at present and doesn’t mind taking his medications or having regular check-ups. Tony feels he knows as much as he needs to about his various health problems and doesn’t seek out additional information. He is happy to talk openly about his health to friends and family, and his brother and sister-law are his main sources of support. He adopts a positive attitude to life and doesn’t dwell on his problems.

Tony has complete faith that his GP has his wellbeing at heart and would therefore go along with whatever changes she suggested.

Age at interview 74

Gender Male

The first blood pressure medicine that Tony took made him feel dizzy. The second one he tried gave him a dry mouth. He is now taking a medicine that does agree with him.

Age at interview 74

Gender Male

Tony finds it convenient to have his blood samples taken at a phlebotomy clinic in his local ASDA store when he happens to be passing it; he doesn’t need an appointment and never waits long.

Age at interview 74

Gender Male