"Mixed "

As a patient of nearly 10 years and unfortunately the need to attend the practice for more than one ongoing health condition that though not ‘sinister’ have in combination quite an impact on my life, i have had positive experiences of gp consultation including ‘bedside manner’ (looking at me rather than the computer whilst I explain my symptoms & acknowledgment of how unwell I’m feeling) to arranging diagnostic tests, referral to specialists & prescribing of medication.

However, I’ve sadly noticed what seems from the patients perspective a deterioration in gp consultation since the 10 minute rule for appointment time, with my most recent appointment, even though it was a double appointment, feeling rushed and the gp asking me what was the second thing I’d come to discuss whilst turned to the computer & typing the prescription for the first issue I discussed.

I know GP’s have limited time but as the patient it felt pressurised to keep to time above my actual reason for attending & under pressure I can’t remember everything I have to say about my symptoms. It was a first consultation with the gp as I wasn’t able to get the gp I prefer, for continuity I do prefer the same of 2 or 3, as I’m sure most patients do where possible as the patient-gp relationship is important, & I have had mixed messages about if it’s ok to request a gp or not, having had it pointed out to me a few years ago I’d seen a few different GP’s at the practice (which was purely due to availability of appointments) then more recently hearing a receptionist tell a patient at the desk who was asking to see one of two gps that there were no appointments with either & at a meeting they were asked to tell patients to see whichever gp was available, then being asked by a gp (who is my named gp ) when am I next seeing the gp I prefer to see & had been most consistently seeing in relation to my ongoing issues.

At my recent appointment while waiting I overheard a receptionist ask a patient which gp they preferred to see.

I would appreciate clarification on the practice’s policy on this.

I have found it very challenging using the on line access to appointments and i have had a message coming up saying I can’t log in but when there’s a big queue I don’t like to take up the clearly busy & always fantastic receptionist time with IT - I would appreciate clarification as to when & how best to sort this & get access to online.

I didnt like trying to tell the receptionist in quiet tones as the practice was very busy about the need to book a smear test with a particular gp as I have problems with the smear test - confidentiality does feel compromised by the limited space and physical set up of the reception area - couldn’t some partition boards be installed at either side of the desk on the patients side as an attempt to improve privacy & confidentiality within what I recognise is a small space?