The parents of disabled Perthshire youngster Jack McNaughton have hit out at NHS Tayside for failing to provide “vital” treatment on a regular basis.
The three-year-old, who suffers from cerebral palsy, has had to wait more than a month between land-based physiotherapy sessions despite his surgeon’s recommendations.
In November the brave tot underwent a major operation in the United States in a bid to take his first steps.
Previously unable to wiggle his toes, Jack can now make his own way round his Almondbank home with the help of a walker, but mum Stacy (25) says this would not be the case had they had to rely on the NHS.
Morag Dorward, Allied Health Professions (AHP) child health lead for Tayside, said her department was “committed” to offering the toddler the best possible care and denied any claims he had been “forgotten about”.
Stacy and husband Graham (31) raised £75,000 with the help of the community to fund the selective dorsal rhizotomy surgery at St Louis Children’s Hospital in Missouri, follow-up treatment and specialised equipment.
They hoped the remaining cash would pay for a return visit for follow-up treatment, but with last month’s private treatment bill topping £2000 money is running out.
Stacy said, “We feel really let down. The care offered by the NHS just isn’t good enough.
“We took Jack to the United States because the treatment he needed isn’t offered in the UK, but to have to fight for the follow-up physio he so desperately needs is very frustrating.Therapy”NHS Tayside knew about the op and we informed them that he would need regular land-based therapy to ensure he learnt to use his legs properly, but he has only had one such session this year.
“The NHS physio is great none of this is her fault. We just wish we could see her more often.
“When she saw him she was able to recommend that he would benefit from ankle weights but it would have been good to get them for him sooner.
“He has also had one hydrotherapy session with her, which was beneficial, and she is due to visit his nursery to set up equipment, but this can’t replace land-based therapy.
“Had we not had the money to pay for a private physio both in Perth and at the Bobath Centre in Glasgow his development would no doubt be suffering.
“It sometimes feels a bit like he has been forgotten about, as we have to make almost all the telephone calls. He was certainly seen more regularly by the NHS before the operation.”MilestoneHaving once been destined to life in a wheelchair, Jack reached an important milestone this week when he started at Luncarty Nursery.
“He loved meeting all his new friends and showing them his ‘new legs’,” Stacy said.
Jack is also celebrating after becoming “nappy free.” Before the operation he had no control of his bladder or bowel, but now he is able to let his parents know when he needs the toilet, “just like any other boy or girl,” Stacy revealed.
Ms Dorward urged the McNaughtons to make contact to discuss any concerns. She said, “Since his return from the United States, this little boy has been offered weekly input through clinic sessions, hydrotherapy and support for the family and nursery.
“His therapy is planned in six-week blocks with a chance to review current need in partnership with his parents.
“As a department we are committed to offer Jack ongoing treatment as appropriate. A partnership with parents is essential to support them in how they help his needs at home.
“As the AHP lead I am very happy to meet with Jack’s parents to discuss their concerns further should they wish.”