"Thank you"

Having spent all day and three attempts to get through to my doctors surgery, I know I am not alone when faced with the frustration of having to wait in a telephone queue for over 45 minutes on each attempt. To then be told there was nothing they could do as appointments were full for two weeks, it does leave you feeling deflated and a little panicked when your child is sick - thankfully a rare occurrence and therefore completely unaware of the processes and restraints of booking an appointment.

I was advised by the receptionist to call 111 and if deemed appropriate they would refer back to my GP.

I persisted as I felt my daughter, who was showing (what I thought was) symptoms of a UTI and needed antiobiotics. After a quick call to 111, I was indeed referred back and my doctor called within 10 minutes. This was 6.20pm.

The Doctor, once aware of my daughter's condition kindly 'told me off' for leaving this so long however apologised sincerely when I relayed the steps taken throughout the day.

He wanted to see her immediately and explained he would wait at the surgery after closing time for my arrival. He was welcoming, attentive and genuinely concerned and I am extremely grateful for his swift response and action.

He referred me immediately to RBH Paediatrics A&E and after further assessment, medication and some observation, we were allowed home late that evening.

Thank you so much for seeing my daughter at such a late hour, I’m really very grateful for your swift action and kindness when her condition seemed to deteriorate quite quickly.

As frustrating as it was to wait in a telephone queue for over 45 minutes on each of the three attempts I called (to then be told there was nothing they could do), I appreciate it must be a very frustrating process for you all aswell.

Many thanks again for all the hard work you do.