I contacted my GP surgery via the surgery's Internet based system, as that is their preferred way for patients to contact them. I got a call back from one of the resident GPs who, despite me explaining my symptoms, I did not feel that they were taking into account everything I was saying, it oddly felt as though some prejudgment had occurred prior to them even returning my calling. This was very sad for me, even more so as I was in pain and discomfort, and was simply not being listened to, it was just all very strange. They asked me two or three times what I wanted them to do about my symptoms... I was perplexed by this, but responded each time that I would like the pain to cease and to know what is causing it. I felt at that point that there was, for some unknown reason, an attempt to devalue what I was actually experiencing healthwise. I do not feel that doctor provided me with equal access to NHS GP services on that occasion. They said if what I was feeling was so bad I should go to A&E. I was really surprised by this, but even more so by the attitude that came with that statement. I muttered to myself that I did not know how I would get to hospital, this being more situational than demographic. However, without knowing or asking about my situation, they said "you can get a taxi or call an ambulance". they didn't know what my financial situation was or whether I have caring responsibilities (which I do), they just felt I could up and go to hospital. Furthermore, for what my health issue was at that time, although I am not a doctor, I did not feel it warranted an ambulance, nor attendance at the hospital (wasting scarce and precious NHS resources), otherwise that would have been my first response without hesitation. If the doctor had listened to me properly, they perhaps would have come to that conclusion also... The standard at this surgery has always been high, for the many years that I have been registered there, so this was odd, uncaring and very unprofessional. Anyway, as I was in no fit condition to continue this distressing dialogue, I asked to speak with another GP. A different GP rang me back, listened, and took into account everything I was telling them about my symptoms, made a diagnosis and prescribed accordingly. They also said the condition did not warrant going to A&E... I have been so upset about my treatment by the initial GP and not sure how best to deal with it all this time. Had I not seen the opportunity to report it on here, I doubt that I would have.
Doctor
Being listened to
Seeing the whole me
Responses