Dr Matthew Bridges

I was reviewed by Dr Bridges yesterday after suffering from years of chronic musculoskeletal pain. I felt the appointment was rushed from start to finish , was given no opportunity to ask questions and felt his attitude to be quite dismissive . He was polite but unfriendly . He had not reviewed my scans before entering the room and merely glanced at them after I reminded him he had been sent them in preparation for the appointment . He was not interested in how pain affected my quality of life ie sleep problems, fatigue , post exercise viral symptoms etc a cursory ‘oh ok ‘ when I did mention them and nothing more. He did suggest further blood tests and recommend my GP prescribe a different painkiller for which I was grateful . When I asked if my symptoms could be those of fibromyalgia he said most chronic pain could be put down to that and treatment was no different than that of osteoarthritis ( despite one of his listings saying he had an interest in fibromyalgia !) I was dismissed having been advised I did not need follow up . I felt short changed , not listened to and a bit of a fraud in all honesty . Not what you would hope for or expect from a rheumatologist . Back to my GP who is understanding and empathetic .

I had an appt with Dr.Bridges today 1st march 23. First time I had met the Dr.I really appreciated his understanding of my symptoms and he explained very clearly what the plan was going to be after he examined me. Wonderful person.

I saw Dr Bridges as an NHS patient a few weeks ago. He tried to take a diagnosis of Connective Tissue Disease from me, despite being diagnosed and receiving treatment. He also said that I was a ‘well looking girl’ and inciting I had no problems because of my age. I have asked to be discharged by north tees rheumatology department because of this.

Dr Matt Bridges listened carefully to my problems and was very thorough in his approach to investigations. He has a great bedside manner and is very understanding and clear in his explanation of my medical problems. Would not hesitate to recommend him as a Rheumatologist

Dr Matthew Bridges is a friendly, easy to talk to doctor who can answer your questions without fear of feeling foolish. He has always managed my rheumatoid arthritis well over the years. Thanks Dr Bridges

I saw Dr Bridges, at the BMI hospital, last week, for the first time. I found him to be very pleasant and easy to talk to. He listened while I explained my pain, and he examined me. Dr Bridges was quite sure of my diagnosis, but recommended an Mri scan to confirm. I will definitely be seeing him again once my results have been received. I would highly recommend Dr Bridges.

This doctor basically suggested I had no issues despite years of pain. Hasnt responded to requests for further contact and generally was dismissive with a poor "bedside manner". People dont end up seeing a Consultant for no reason so I suggest he work on his diagnostic and communication skills.

I visited Mr Bridges for the first time the day after my dads funeral. I was in a lot of pain and my head wasn’t in the best place. I have recently moved back to the NE after about 10 years and I was very scared moving to a new Rheumatologist as I have really struggled these past 4 years. After a thorough examination Dr Bridges ordered blood test, X-rays and MRI’s as he was starting from scratch with only my previous Rheumatologist’s letters I had taken to my appointment. I found him approachable, to the point (which I appreciate) very thorough not leaving any stone unturned, efficiently and pleasant in his manner. I am still awaiting my results but over all I have to say I had a very positive experience in my initial appointment with Dr Bridges, I felt listened to and would recommend him to anyone else struggling with a chronic condition.

This doctor told me I didn’t have a disorder, that my GP and I both thought I could have, before even examining me. He was blunt and didn’t want to listen, he diagnosed me before I’d finished talking, steering the conversation to one specific diagnosis. He had no interest in anything else I had to say. You wait 3 months, in pain daily, only to be dismissed and extremely embarrassed by a physical examination in your underwear, that you weren’t expecting!! Awful experience

Dr Bridges was very dismissive of the condition I was being investigated for. More or less said even if they found that I had it they couldn’t do much about it. I had some positive results. This is definitely incorrect information-given by him. I suggest Dr Bridges reads up a little more on the subject. There is a Professor who works in this field that I’m being investigated for. He works at the Freeman’s Hospital. This professor can offer treatment for the symptoms. It’s an auto immune condition so cure is unlikely. I’ve been totally dismissed like a piece of rubbish on you shoe.