"Why no freephone number?"

I ring and I then have to wait 20 mins,30 mins, 40 mins on the phone.

I have to keep ringing back because there are never any appointments left.

And I'm talking for months at a time last year, all up to Xmas and since Xmas.

If I try later when the waits are shorter then there are no duty doctor appointnents left.

I ring because the online form tells me I have to and can't use the form .

I tell the reception staff because that means it's serious but that doesnt count and they say 'you have to call back in the morning'.

I don't have a contract phone like many disabled or vulnerable and poorer patients. Yet my GP practice has a telephone number that charges me 45p p/m. Wealthier patients with a contract phone aren't charged as a landline call is free.

That is shameful in 2024.

It also discriminates against me and many.