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Care Opinion

Difficulty accessing GP service

Posted By Caspertghosty

"Difficulty accessing GP service"

About: General practices in Forth Valley

(as a service user),

I have a bronchitis type cough , barking , sore at the top of my chest.   I have taken 4 lateral flow tests in a week, including today. All are negative so I explained to the receptionist that I have taken them and I don't have COVID,  but I do have a bronchial cough

The receptionist said that I had to have a PCR test. When I asked why, they said because I have a symptom of COVID. I explained that I clearly don't have COVID as I have had 4 negative NHS lateral flow tests . It's a bronchial cough which I've had before .

I ask why I need to PCR test when all the lateral flow tests are negative . I was advised that that is what the nurse says the rules are. I asked what the point of lateral flow tests if they are not taking to show that I don't have COVID, but this was not answered.

It is a joke that you can't get an appointment without a PCR .  The  lateral flow tests are from the NHS, but they won't take that as proof you don't have COVID. I know I have a bronchial cough as I've had it before . 

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Responses

Response from Cathie Cowan, Chief Executive, NHS Forth VAlley 2 years ago
Cathie Cowan
Chief Executive,
NHS Forth VAlley

Submitted on 20/12/2021 at 09:15
Published on Care Opinion at 09:15

I am sorry you have had difficulties accessing an appointment with your practice. Unfortunately current guidance that GPs are asked to follow advises that if you have symptoms that are commonly associated with Covid, then a PCR test is recommended to help the practice decide the safest way to deal with your problem. Lateral flow tests are for use in people that are not showing any potential signs or symptoms of Covid.

This guidance is to reduce the risk for you, other patients and staff of spreading covid-19.

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