"Difficult to obtain an appointment"

I called in early January, to be told early March was the earliest available date for a “phone consultation”. I waited patiently till then.

The appointment day came and no phone call. I called to chase at 16:00 to ensure I was on the list.  I was told by the administrator that I was and doctor would be calling me soon. The phone call never came.

I called the following day to explain my situation again, and was told by the administrator that they could get me an appointment three days later.

The doctor called on that day and we had a 5/10 minute conversation. They explained they would get me in for the soonest appointment available - I was willing to travel and could make myself available. I received a text shortly after explaining town, postcode, time, covid restrictions and how to cancel.  I also received a reminder text 2 days prior to appointment

I arrived at the hospital and entered through the main entrance and no one knew where “open clinic” was or “sexual health services”. I went to three other departments before someone knew where to send me.  Arrived at the correct door and it was locked.  Someone was leaving so I was able to enter as I began to call the open clinic phone number.

Once in the waiting room the administrator was very lovely and even offered me a drink after I said I felt hot.

I was asked to go into the toilet which was a little surprising.  It would have been nice to have been told that before proceeding we need to do a pregnancy test so please go to the toilet and use the cup provided 

The nurse who saw me and their “assistant” were also lovely, and the rest of the procedure I was made to feel at ease.

I’m grateful that we can receive this healthcare for “free” however it shouldn’t have been this difficult for me to obtain an appointment. Once at the clinic the process was streamlined, a similar approach should be made to the booking system, an online booking option for the consultation should be made available to save many frustrating phone calls with extensive extension options to go to different clinics.