"Difficult experience during sensitive time"

I would like to provide some honest feedback about my recent experience at Daybrook practice, which unfortunately has led me to transfer to another GP surgery asap.

I had been with Daybrook practice primarily because it was close to my home — a crucial factor for me, as I live with mobility issues. The convenience of location made it easier for me to attend appointments when needed, and for some time, I tried to make the best of the situation. However, my most recent appointment with a doctor has left me feeling disappointed and disheartened, and I no longer feel that I can continue receiving care at this practice.

During the appointment, I was discussing a sensitive and emotionally challenging issue — fertility. This is something I have been struggling with, and I came to the appointment hoping to receive support, understanding, and guidance. Instead, I was met with what felt like a sarcastic and dismissive attitude from the doctor.

I was asked why I needed blood tests and what I would do depending on the results, but not in a way that felt like a constructive medical conversation. The tone and manner in which these questions were asked came across as unsympathetic and even mocking. I left the appointment feeling uncomfortable, judged, and emotionally unsupported.

As a patient dealing with a deeply personal health issue, I expect — and believe all patients deserve — to be met with compassion and professionalism. Unfortunately, this was not my experience. I do not question the doctor's clinical knowledge, but I do believe there is a significant gap in the way patients are being spoken to and supported, particularly when it comes to sensitive issues like fertility.

Fertility is not just a medical issue — it affects mental health, emotional wellbeing, relationships, and a person’s future. When a patient comes in with these concerns, they are often in a vulnerable state, and the attitude of the clinician can make a major difference to how safe and supported they feel. In my case, I felt dismissed and emotionally unprotected. That is not something I ever expected to experience from my GP.

I am providing this feedback not to cause trouble or assign blame, but because I truly believe that experiences like mine should be heard. I understand that GPs are under pressure and time constraints, but empathy and respectful communication are not optional — they are essential parts of healthcare. In this instance, I felt that basic compassion was missing from the consultation.

As a result of this experience, I have now decided to move to a different GP surgery where I feel confident I will receive care from a team that takes patients’ concerns seriously, both medically and emotionally. I am saddened that it had to come to this, especially given how difficult it is for me to travel, but I no longer felt comfortable remaining at the practice.

I would encourage the practice to consider offering additional support to staff members on empathy, especially around sensitive areas such as fertility, mental health, and chronic illness. I believe that doing so would help improve the experience for future patients who, like me, come in needing more than just medical answers — they need to feel listened to and respected.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. I hope this feedback is taken constructively, as it is meant to be.