"Usually good - could have done better on this…"

I rang at 8.30 on Friday 29/12, explaining that I had shingles; as it’s something I’ve had before I’m familiar with the symptoms and knew that I needed a prescription for anti- viral meds. The medication needs to be taken within 72 hours of the symptoms appearing to be effective, and as the weekend/ bank holiday was approaching and I felt really poorly I was quite anxious. The first receptionist was very kind and informed me she would book me in for a GP telephone consultation that morning. Around 2.00 I called the surgery worried as I had not received a call, the person answering the call this time was totally unsympathetic and dismissive and I was told to wait, with no reassurance that I’d even get a prescription. I finally got a call from a GP at 16.30 and was asked why I not sent a photograph of the rash, I was then sent a link for me to send a photo. I did finally get a prescription at around 5.00. This could have easily been made a less stressful experience with a bit of thought behind it. If you needed an image you could have informed me when I first rang, and sent me the link then, it would have prevented unnecessary repeat contact later down the line. Please don’t tell me I’ll get a call in the morning if you’ve not sure, if it can be anytime that day then fine as long as I know, and if I do call back because of your poor communication then please don’t have an attitude, it’s not helpful to either one of us