"Rude Dismissive Uncaring "

“I do appreciate that procedures are in place . However, with respect, I think I’m a better judge of the urgency and appropriateness of my own medical needs than someone without clinical training. I’m not asking for a favor—I’m asking for the basic courtesy of being allowed to speak with my own doctor, who actually knows my medical history and is qualified to make that decision. Referring me to A&E over something that requires continuity of care seems, frankly, a misuse of NHS resources. No one actually listens just trained to push you away.

I was honestly quite taken aback—and insulted—by the notes that were made following our conversation this morning. I haven’t needed to speak with my doctor in some time, thankfully, because things have been going well. But when I do reach out, it’s because I genuinely need to. I’m not someone who turns up at the surgery for every small issue; I reach out when it matters. And to be met with such dismissiveness, and then to see that reflected in the notes as if I’m being unreasonable, is deeply disappointing. It’s hard enough to ask for help sometimes, and being made to feel like a burden for doing so is not only disheartening—it’s unacceptable. Patients shouldn’t be made to feel ashamed for advocating for their own health. It’s not just unfair—it’s utterly wrong.”

I see—we’re at the stage where receptionists are now triaging medical conditions.I was under the impression that was my doctor’s role, but clearly I must have missed the memo. I’ll just pop off to A&E then, as advised, so they can tell me what my GP could have told me in five minutes—assuming, of course, I don’t waste any emergency resources in the process. Still, thank you for your guidance; it’s always helpful when administrative staff feel confident enough to make clinical judgments.”

We place our trust at our lowest

Trust broken