"Can't get appointmnents"

After trying to get through to reception for one week (I work so can only be on hold for a limited amount of time) I eventually got through to reception. Receptionist was incredibly professional and friendly but could offer no appointment at all for another 18 days. To get an appointment with a female dr I am having to wait 20 days. The receptionist offered great advice saying that I could ring at 8 each morning but, as I would find it quite difficult re arrange and ring at 8 every morning (start work at 8:20), have decided to stick with appointment. I can't see a nurse practitioner as need dr's advice so will just have to wait. It just smacks of an under-staffed surgery. Feel sorry for the receptionists who put up with grief from frustrated patients. Thinking of moving to another surgery.