OVER the last few weeks I have read with dismay the plans of the primary care trust (PCT) to alter the way the GPs gain access for their patients to hospital services.

I am thankful that, when I was having health problems, my GP was able to book an endoscopy examination in July, 2006, using the old-fashioned method of writing directly to the hospital.

On receiving the results I was informed that I had two ulcers at the point where my oesophagus and stomach meet. Upon further examination they turned out to be cancerous.

I subsequently had an appointment with Mr G Miller at York Hospital, who arranged further tests, both at York and at Leeds General Infirmary, before booking me in for surgery on September 11, 2006.

After having my operation, I spent four weeks in hospital, including being taken back into theatre due to complications, in the intensive care unit, the high dependency unit, and the nursing enhanced unit on Ward 16. After further problems I am now recovering, due to the excellent care provided by Mr Miller, his staff, and the nursing staff on Ward 16.

I am just wondering if all that I have experienced over the last six months would have progressed as quickly if the PCT cost saving methods had been in place last year. Finally, I have heard of no mention of what cost savings, other than from frontline services, the PCT are proposing.

JR Burton, Deer Hull Grove, Manor Croft, Clifton, York.