"I don't feel I can trust this GP practice with my…"

If the purpose of a GP practice is to provide care for their patients, this practice has failed miserably at that with me. I always dread having to call the GP because of the incredible stress I have to go through just to be able to speak to a doctor in this practice. And when I do manage to speak to one, my experience so far has always been like speaking to a wall.

I will not name them, but the doctor I dealt with the last time was dismissive at best, if not borderline rude, every time I spoke to them. The last time they missed the phone appointment time by over 30 minutes, despite it being early in the morning. When they eventually called I was not able to pick up the phone quickly enough, as I was commuting to work, and unfortunately missed the call. They even had the audacity to leave a condescending voicemail complaining that I did not pick up the phone.

Another time a different doctor in this practice said they would "call me back in a couple of days", as they needed to do some research on an issue I was having. This was about a year ago. I have not heard from them since. I had to speak to a private GP about that issue, who treated me with kindness and understanding.

I understand GP practices are always under extreme pressure (and this is not because of covid, as it is always been the case), but that should not explain the doctors being dismissive and trying to deal with patients as quickly as possible. If I am needing to talk to the GP I expect them to take the time to listen to my issues carefully and perhaps show a bit of understanding and care. I am afraid to say with this practice 99% of the times this has not been the case.

On a positive note, the receptionists are always very nice and polite, and do their best at helping you despite the high pressure and terrible management.