"triage by telephone"

My GP surgery, Stenhouse Medical Centre in Arnold, has brought in a new arrangement, where people who phone for a same day appointment are first phoned back by a doctor, who can give advice and/or give an appointment if necessary. I find this a good policy, from the patient's point of view, because it gives you confidence that you can get prompt attention, treatment and advice when needed, but also saves unnecessary trips to the surgery.

It also relieves pressure on appointments and reduces waiting times on the day.