FabSwingers.com forum: Gp's fobbing you off

By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

It's becoming more and more familiar you go to the docs with a problem and you get fobbed off, even when you suspect what the problem is, it's now a case of take these pills and we shall see, if it's not better come back in 2 weeks.

How many other people are experiencing this?

(And no the problem isn't nasty lol)

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

You can complain if you think you're being fobbed off,you can see a different gp,speak to the practise manager or change gps completely......you are in charge

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I've found my gp to be very supportive - always willing to listen and give me a thorough examination

I agree with the poster above - you're in charge and gp practices are now more receptive to patients concerns

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Speaking from the experience of someone who used to handle NHS complaints, if you are unhappy with the service your best options are to see another GP at the surgery and speak to the practice manager, an official complaint takes ages and achieves little. GP's get paid by a combination of people seen and people registered at the surgery. You can always vote with your feet and go elsewhere.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

My mum hasn't been well last couple of weeks, she phoned gp practice Thursday, got a appointment for same day, 4pm, came away with antibiotic and steroids and instructions to rest as she has bad chest infection. With the way things are, she and I couldn't ask for a better service for her. Keep at them and change your doctor as they said, they need us as much as we need them.

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By *B9 QueenWoman
over a year ago

Over the rainbow, under the bridge

"It's becoming more and more familiar you go to the docs with a problem and you get fobbed off, even when you suspect what the problem is, it's now a case of take these pills and we shall see, if it's not better come back in 2 weeks.

How many other people are experiencing this?

(And no the problem isn't nasty lol)"

I'm very fortunate to have a very good GP. She's very brusque and no-nonsense, doesn't pull her punches and tells it like it is but, most importantly, she listens and acts on what you tell her. Had the same GP for over 20 years which is a help.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

My mum had been fobbed off for years, being told to loose weight and that she had asthema. Changed gp practice, and in the new patient assesment it was picked up there was someting wrong with her heart.

Turned out to be something she was born with and could have dropped dead at any time. The problem was sorted with surgery and she's now one of the fittest/ healthiest 64 year olds going.

If she hadnt changed doctors, we would never have known.

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By *nnyMan
over a year ago

Glasgow

A GPs job is to treat you in the way s/he thinks appropriate - not necessarily the way you'd prefer.

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By *yrdwomanWoman
over a year ago

Putting the 'cum' in Eboracum

I was ill a couple of years ago and it took many visits to the GP and some negotiation to get referred for tests, where there was indeed something wrong with me that could then be treated.

There are ads on TV that recommend you bring up concerns regarding a persistent cough or bowel problems yet when you do they just say 'oh its probably nothing'. I found being persistent helps with that type of problem.

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By *nnyMan
over a year ago

Glasgow

It probably IS nothing.

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By *yrdwomanWoman
over a year ago

Putting the 'cum' in Eboracum

"It probably IS nothing."

Then don't advise people to visit their GPs on national TV.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Yes....ive been getting migraines nearly every other day so I went to gp and she said keep a diary of them....time and what you're doing so I did. Went back as they keep getting more frequent and took my diary and ive still been told to just monitor them and take tablets when they occur. So I do feel im being fobbed off. Im going to make another appointment in a couple of weeks and insist they do some tests or something to find out what it is.

Another time I went to dr about something and realised that I also needed to renew my pill. Told doc, she said sorry we can only deal with 1 thing per appointment so obviously I got my pill renewed as that was the most important but then had to wait another 3 weeks to get another appointment.

I dont know if there is a shortage of drs especially with our population increase but I do think time taken both to gwt an appointment and then time with the doc is not acceptable.

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By *B9 QueenWoman
over a year ago

Over the rainbow, under the bridge

My GP always asks if there's anything else I need to discuss before ending the appointment. Sometimes though I can't always get an appointment straight away with her. Think she's pretty popular as she's so good but in an emergency I can always see another one at the practice.

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By *nnyMan
over a year ago

Glasgow

"It probably IS nothing.

Then don't advise people to visit their GPs on national TV."

I'd agree. There seems to be a move to get people to their doc, even if there's nothing wrong with them. That's why the poster above had to wait 3 weeks for an appt.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I was ill a couple of years ago and it took many visits to the GP and some negotiation to get referred for tests, where there was indeed something wrong with me that could then be treated.

Yes this annoys me too. They tell you to go but dont tell you that your gp will treat you like your wasting their time!

Last September I had a persistent cough, very tired etc and being a smoker I was concerned. I went a couple of times and they told me it was just a virus! I had it for 4 months, was quite I'll over Christmas/january. It was one of my work colleagues who suggested that I might have whooping cough (because of the sound). I went back, saw another gp, they tested me and yes, I had whooping cough but there was nothing they could do as it has to be treated within the first 2 weeks. Took months for me to feel well again!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

My Doctors been amazing and I can't fault him. He's always been very good to myself and my Children

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Took three years, two visits to A&E, one emergency callout to finally discover what was wrong with me.

In the end, it was a junior nurse in a walk-in centre who diagnosed it. The response from my doctor was a to put me on tablets that could only be taken for a year before they started to cause permanent side effects. The tablets are still in my bathroom cabinet two years on.

I have very little faith in the GP system, it has repeatedly let me down every time I have had need to call upon it. The NHS, however, I cannot fault.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"It probably IS nothing.

Then don't advise people to visit their GPs on national TV.

I'd agree. There seems to be a move to get people to their doc, even if there's nothing wrong with them. That's why the poster above had to wait 3 weeks for an appt."

prevention has to be better than cures, It is always advisable to build up a relationship with your doctor.

We all know our own bodies, and if something feels different, wrong, or your just unsure, always visit your doctor.

As for appointment waiting times, You should always be able to see your doctor within 7 working days, if your dr. is off work or fully booked an alternative can be requested.

Every NHS surgery has same day appointments, the availability varies, but by ringing or turning up at 8am ( times may vary ) any cancelled or vacant appointments are offered for that day.

If for some reason you cant get to the surgery, ie kids, travel, work or illness, you can ask for a telephone consultation, whereby your dr. rings you back at an appointed time, If further examination or treatment is needed they will arrange follow up with you.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"It probably IS nothing.

Then don't advise people to visit their GPs on national TV.

I'd agree. There seems to be a move to get people to their doc, even if there's nothing wrong with them. That's why the poster above had to wait 3 weeks for an appt."

No. I had to wait 3 weeks as thays when the next available slot was.

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By *nnyMan
over a year ago

Glasgow

"It probably IS nothing.

Then don't advise people to visit their GPs on national TV.

I'd agree. There seems to be a move to get people to their doc, even if there's nothing wrong with them. That's why the poster above had to wait 3 weeks for an appt.

No. I had to wait 3 weeks as thays when the next available slot was. "

Who do you think had booked all the other slots?

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By *nnyMan
over a year ago

Glasgow

"...

I have very little faith in the GP system, it has repeatedly let me down every time I have had need to call upon it. ........"

It shouldn't be too hard to find a witch doctor near you.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"It probably IS nothing.

Then don't advise people to visit their GPs on national TV.

I'd agree. There seems to be a move to get people to their doc, even if there's nothing wrong with them. That's why the poster above had to wait 3 weeks for an appt.

No. I had to wait 3 weeks as thays when the next available slot was.

Who do you think had booked all the other slots?"

Patients who had also had to wait to get slots????

The receptionist who makes the appointments doesn't ask whats wrong and then allocate a slot, she looks through the slots and then tells me when the next appointment is. She doesn't know who I am or why I need to see doc. As when she identifies a free slot she then asks for my details.

Im happy to wait my turn but I think 3 weeks is not a suitable time scale.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

How many other people are experiencing this?

(And no the problem isn't nasty lol)"

I had this with a lump in my breast, kept giving me antibiotics to see if they took it down. I had enough and saw another dr who referred me to hospital because the 4 lots of tablets clearly hadn't worked. So I know exactly what you mean

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By *nnyMan
over a year ago

Glasgow

"It probably IS nothing.

Then don't advise people to visit their GPs on national TV.

I'd agree. There seems to be a move to get people to their doc, even if there's nothing wrong with them. That's why the poster above had to wait 3 weeks for an appt.

No. I had to wait 3 weeks as thays when the next available slot was.

Who do you think had booked all the other slots?

Patients who had also had to wait to get slots????

Im happy to wait my turn but I think 3 weeks is not a suitable time scale. "

I agree but how many of those booked slots were people who'd seen a tv advert and thought 'I'll pop along to my GP - just in case'.

The reason sick people get 6 minutes with their GP is the worried well.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"It probably IS nothing.

Then don't advise people to visit their GPs on national TV.

I'd agree. There seems to be a move to get people to their doc, even if there's nothing wrong with them. That's why the poster above had to wait 3 weeks for an appt.

No. I had to wait 3 weeks as thays when the next available slot was.

Who do you think had booked all the other slots?

Patients who had also had to wait to get slots????

Im happy to wait my turn but I think 3 weeks is not a suitable time scale. "

a receptionists job is to liase between the patient, ie you and the service provider, unless you say why you need to see the doctor, of course you will be slotted in at their convenience, please remember, you pay the receptionist and the dr's wage and they are your servants, if you accept what your told, ie 3 weeks wait, why should they offer you a same day appointment, that may be needed for someone with greater needs,

Communication is key. a lot of problems will heal themselves in 3 weeks, for other problems it could make the difference between life and death.

Your initial meeting or phone call to the receptionist, determins your need to see a doctor, so its about being assertive and descriptive.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Reading through the thread there seems to be very differing experiences - from the gp who listens and shows genuine concern to the gp who prescribe tablets as a generic remedy

It is important to remember patients have the right to complain or doctors

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By *eareenaCouple
over a year ago

Rockford

I am afraid that it's a case of the squeaky wheel gets the grease and with many illnesses people don't have the energy to fight for proper health care. Gps are under pressure and thats not helping them provide. The system is inefficient and its only because of the good people in the nhs that it works at all.

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By *nnyMan
over a year ago

Glasgow

GPs get paid per patient on their list and some accept so many patients they can't possibly care for them all. That's why the failed NHS hotline thing was invented and why A&E is creaking at the seams.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I actually work in a pharmacy that is connected to our local drs and I have to say, the amount of people we see in there day after day, because they have a cough or a cold. There are some people these days who don't think they should have to spend £3 on a cough bottle so will go to the dr for a prescription that they then get for free. I see it day in day out, and the reason people with genuine illnesses find it so hard to get an appointment is because alot of the drs time is being taken by people who don't really have anything wrong with them. Apologies if my rant offends anyone, but this is very true where I live

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

As this thread shows, there are good and not so good GPs.

A distinct problem is that doctors can only work on the information you give them.

If you suspect what is wrong with you, then look at your GPs practice online. It should tell you if any of the doctors specialise in certain areas. You can then choose the doctor you feel could be most appropriate.

Other than that jot down all your symptoms to tell the doctor. Tell them your fears and whether any relative has the condition or died from it. This information can do one of two things: hint at your mental well-being or give a doctor a possible genetic link. Either way, time permitting, the doctor has to treat you holistically.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

My receptionist now asks what the nature of the problem is and if it is and emergency before she gives you an appointment. If you say you need an appointment that day or next you have to have the Dr ring you first. If its not urgent you get an appointment within the next 2 weeks.

There are also appointments held back until midday so you can ring at midday and get an appointment late afternoon etc.

It seems to be prioritising appointments which is good although can be frustrating sometimes when all you want is an appointment that day but beggars cant be choosers as they say.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

It really annoys me that the receptionists at my go practice have been instructed to ask what your symptoms are. A) they are not medically trained and B) a few of them are moms of kids at the same school as my child

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

please remember, you pay the receptionist and the dr's wage."

Guess what... Healthcare professionals pay taxes too!

If you want to know your rights, go look at The Patients Charter.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"It really annoys me that the receptionists at my go practice have been instructed to ask what your symptoms are. A) they are not medically trained and B) a few of them are moms of kids at the same school as my child"

Patient confidentiality is a priority and anyone who was to discuss your medical condition or treatment would be warned, possibly sacked, if you don't trust people, say nothing and be prepared to wait on their convenience, that is a choice you have to make.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

My gp runs a triage system for same day appointments - whereby a doctor will call you to chat through the symptoms

I asked the gp why this had been introduced and responded that gp's were now seeing more people who could self treat and were overloading the available appointments with unnecessary gp visits

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

with bad attitudes, poor care, and long waiting times, they would have no wages to pay tax on, you are free to take your business elsewhere.

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By *ENGUYMan
over a year ago

Hull

I'm really lucky to have had superb doctors over the past 20 years in different parts of the UK.

I'm with a Group Practice at the moment in my local area, and the docs there are simply the best!

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By *ugby 123Couple
Forum Mod
over a year ago

O o O oo

"My receptionist now asks what the nature of the problem is and if it is and emergency before she gives you an appointment.

I would answer that with none of your business.

Someone not medically qualified should not be able to make a decision as to wether you need a doctor or not plus it is my private business so I wouldn't be telling her.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"My receptionist now asks what the nature of the problem is and if it is and emergency before she gives you an appointment.

I would answer that with none of your business.

Someone not medically qualified should not be able to make a decision as to wether you need a doctor or not plus it is my private business so I wouldn't be telling her.

This is exactly how I feel!!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"My receptionist now asks what the nature of the problem is and if it is and emergency before she gives you an appointment.

I would answer that with none of your business.

Someone not medically qualified should not be able to make a decision as to wether you need a doctor or not plus it is my private business so I wouldn't be telling her.

This is exactly how I feel!!"

They are not making a decision weather or not you need to see a doctor,

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"My receptionist now asks what the nature of the problem is and if it is and emergency before she gives you an appointment.

I would answer that with none of your business.

Someone not medically qualified should not be able to make a decision as to wether you need a doctor or not plus it is my private business so I wouldn't be telling her.

This is exactly how I feel!!

They are not making a decision weather or not you need to see a doctor,

But they are making a decision as to when you see a gp. If I want to see my gp its because I want to see him today, not 2 or 3 weeks

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Can only ever get to talk to mine on phone, to get an appointment usually takes 2 weeks, better by then

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Can only ever get to talk to mine on phone, to get an appointment usually takes 2 weeks, better by then"

That is still a consultation

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"My receptionist now asks what the nature of the problem is and if it is and emergency before she gives you an appointment.

I would answer that with none of your business.

Someone not medically qualified should not be able to make a decision as to wether you need a doctor or not plus it is my private business so I wouldn't be telling her.

This is exactly how I feel!!"

Like healthcare professionals, they are bound by patient confidentiality

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By *icketysplitsWoman
over a year ago

Way over Yonder, that's where I'm bound

I have been lucky that I have had 30 years of brilliant GPs from the same practice.

Yes, they are busy and for a standard appointment with a specific GP it can take a couple of weeks. If I have an emergency they have a turn up system that sees people everyday. If I need an urgent but not immediate slot I can see another GP within a day or two.

I've found the after work evening slots best. It's funny how quiet these are and rarely taken by those complaining that they can't get an appointment. I can usually get 15/20 minutes with my amazing GP just by asking for an evening slot.

I know it's not the same for everyone but sometimes you need to look at their whole offer and not just the time and date you specifically want.

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By *adyA01Woman
over a year ago

Wellington

I think it all depends on what GP you get, at my docs you can't always see the same one. I have been complaining about pain in my left lower side for 3 years. A year ago I had a scan and it turns out I have a cyst on my left ovary! Saw the doc again a few weeks back and complained again as it is regularly flaring up, and he tried telling me it is something you have to live with! One of those things! I was not happy told him I wanted it removed! He tried telling me they won't take it out! I was insistent that he refer me, he finally agreed to sending me for another scan before referral! Had the scan yesterday, and have to make an appt in a weeks time for the results! Sometimes you have to be Quite forceful and insistent! I am hoping I shall see a different gp for the results!

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By *all-Eddies QosCouple
over a year ago

wirral

Took me 8 years to be diagnosed.....all they have done now is put me on the pill....it kinda helps but I'm 33 and fat can't stay on the pill the problem needs sorting.....my drs seem only to think in the short term.

My 2 boys both need circumcisions they have known this for 2 years, they are now 6 and 4....waiting for infections to occur so they can say for certain it's the foreskin before referral....longer they leave it, more traumatic for them. Grrrrr

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By *nnyMan
over a year ago

Glasgow

" ......

I know it's not the same for everyone but sometimes you need to look at their whole offer and not just the time and date you specifically want."

Or go private ...... and pay for it twice

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

a few years ago I was really ill, I had been to my gp, they diagnosed a stomach bug and advised me to drink plenty of water and rest, if no better the next day (as this had been going on for 2 days) then to get back in touch. the next day I was no better, the gp came and gave me an injection to stop the sickness, again was told if no better, then to get back in touch the next day. the next day I was still being sick, but could not get into see the doc, so my mum ended up taking me as I was too ill to take myself. my mum pleaded with the receptionist to get me in, had to wait an hour and a half for surgery to finish, all the time being sick in the waiting area. when we managed to see the doc, he told my mum to take me straight up the hospital, as it was quicker than waiting for the ambulance.

once at the hospital, my mum was told, that if I had waited another hour before getting there then I would have.died, as my organs were shutting down. after being admitted and having drips fitted for a week, along with numerous blood tests, it took a doctor who was.visiting other patients to diagnose what was up with me, by asking a simple question....

I now only visit one gp, as she understands and knows me, so I no longer have to give out my medical history before any doc will treat me

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Yes....ive been getting migraines nearly every other day so I went to gp and she said keep a diary of them....time and what you're doing so I did. Went back as they keep getting more frequent and took my diary and ive still been told to just monitor them and take tablets when they occur. So I do feel im being fobbed off. Im going to make another appointment in a couple of weeks and insist they do some tests or something to find out what it is.

I dont know if there is a shortage of drs especially with our population increase but I do think time taken both to gwt an appointment and then time with the doc is not acceptable. "
please dont wait another couple of weeks...insist on being checked out now....its your health love. x

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Can only ever get to talk to mine on phone, to get an appointment usually takes 2 weeks, better by then

That is still a consultation"

Dial a Doc....

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By *ugby 123Couple
Forum Mod
over a year ago

O o O oo

"My receptionist now asks what the nature of the problem is and if it is and emergency before she gives you an appointment.

I would answer that with none of your business.

Someone not medically qualified should not be able to make a decision as to wether you need a doctor or not plus it is my private business so I wouldn't be telling her.

This is exactly how I feel!!

They are not making a decision weather or not you need to see a doctor,

So why would they need to ask?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

This annoys me to, I just tell them I'm not willing to discuss with them and ask to speak to Doc

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By *ugby 123Couple
Forum Mod
over a year ago

O o O oo

"My receptionist now asks what the nature of the problem is and if it is and emergency before she gives you an appointment.

I would answer that with none of your business.

Someone not medically qualified should not be able to make a decision as to wether you need a doctor or not plus it is my private business so I wouldn't be telling her.

This is exactly how I feel!!

Like healthcare professionals, they are bound by patient confidentiality "

I know, or you like to think this in the case but it doesn't mean I want to discuss my private business with anyone other than a doctor/nurse.

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By *B9 QueenWoman
over a year ago

Over the rainbow, under the bridge

I'd refuse to discuss any medical issues on the phone with anyone. None of the receptionist's business.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Same here

Billy

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I'd refuse to discuss any medical issues on the phone with anyone. None of the receptionist's business. "

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Took me 8 years to be diagnosed.....all they have done now is put me on the pill....it kinda helps but I'm 33 and fat can't stay on the pill the problem needs sorting.....my drs seem only to think in the short term.

A Gp is a general practitioner, most don't have ant specialised knowledge, they have chosen to be the first contact with patients, and then they buy in expert help, urologists etc.

I have always had a tight foreskin, age about 7 dr said use warm soapy water to stretch it, it hurt so I didn't!

47 yrs later I had a series of water infections so went to dr, she refered me to urologist, and suggested a circumsission, best day of my life, pain free, and a great dinner!

It has changed my life completely, if I wanted to fuck I now could,

and I pee like a pressure washer with no drips.

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By *or Fox SakeCouple
over a year ago

Thornaby

If you want better health care pay more money. It's that simple. We think we are taxed too much so won't pay more.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"My receptionist now asks what the nature of the problem is and if it is and emergency before she gives you an appointment.

I would answer that with none of your business.

Someone not medically qualified should not be able to make a decision as to wether you need a doctor or not plus it is my private business so I wouldn't be telling her.

This is exactly how I feel!!

They are not making a decision weather or not you need to see a doctor,

So why would they need to ask?"

In any service business priorities are important,

There are so many timed appointments, and if its a good dr, probably more people than slots,

If I ring up and say can I see my dr today, I would expect to have a reason.

The receptionist hears this request continually, it could be to sign a letter, form or passport application,

or it could be your blood sugars are really low and you are about to have a hypo,

of course a hundred other things ..

The receptionist is trained in dealing with people, sick people, well people, all people,

that's their expertise,

by asking one or two questions, the receptionist can advise you of the correct procedures, that benefit you,

ie, an appointment. a visit, a telephone conversation.

Of course its your choice to fold your arms and say nothing..

If that's the route you take, don't expect too much.

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By *icketysplitsWoman
over a year ago

Way over Yonder, that's where I'm bound

" ......

I know it's not the same for everyone but sometimes you need to look at their whole offer and not just the time and date you specifically want.

Or go private ...... and pay for it twice

Although, my last big op the hospital did the op type I wanted, with the consultant I requested, on the day requested. Lovely NHS when it all works perfectly.

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By *nnyMan
over a year ago

Glasgow

" ......

.............................. Lovely NHS when it all works perfectly."

And when it doesn't work perfectly, it's statistically more often the fault of the patient than the system.

Failure to attend.

Failure to complete course of meds.

Failure to abstain from drink/ drugs/ overeating etc.

Failure to tell the truth.

I'm sure there's more.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

" ......

.............................. Lovely NHS when it all works perfectly.

And when it doesn't work perfectly, it's statistically more often the fault of the patient than the system.

Failure to attend.

Failure to complete course of meds.

Failure to abstain from drink/ drugs/ overeating etc.

Failure to tell the truth.

I'm sure there's more."

And sometimes it is clinical negligence

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

yes after returning to my gp about a illness i had a few yrs ago i asked to be referred back to my consultant, who had said any problems in the future come back to me,,,well my gp flatly refused to refer me stating she knew what medication i needed..... so i contacted the secretary of my consultant who gave the doctor a piece of his mind and told him to let the people who knew best to make the decisions and not gp's..... hence i saw consultant who altered my medication...... heard that gp wasnt happy what i did, but wasnt her feeling unwell and not able to work was it...!!!!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"yes after returning to my gp about a illness i had a few yrs ago i asked to be referred back to my consultant, who had said any problems in the future come back to me,,,well my gp flatly refused to refer me stating she knew what medication i needed..... so i contacted the secretary of my consultant who gave the doctor a piece of his mind and told him to let the people who knew best to make the decisions and not gp's..... hence i saw consultant who altered my medication...... heard that gp wasnt happy what i did, but wasnt her feeling unwell and not able to work was it...!!!!

"
O:-

Good for you!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

thank you......... i'm not one to go to doctors and less i have to, and i know there are a lot of good ones out there... how ever long gone are the days where i listen to a doctor if i feel i need a second opinion...

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By *nnyMan
over a year ago

Glasgow

" ......

.............................. Lovely NHS when it all works perfectly.

And when it doesn't work perfectly, it's statistically more often the fault of the patient than the system.

Failure to attend.

Failure to complete course of meds.

Failure to abstain from drink/ drugs/ overeating etc.

Failure to tell the truth.

I'm sure there's more.

And sometimes it is clinical negligence "

Sometimes, but I'd be surprised if more than a very few ever set out to deliberately harm patients. That's why Shipman left such a scar on our collective memory.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

" ......

.............................. Lovely NHS when it all works perfectly.

And when it doesn't work perfectly, it's statistically more often the fault of the patient than the system.

Failure to attend.

Failure to complete course of meds.

Failure to abstain from drink/ drugs/ overeating etc.

Failure to tell the truth.

I'm sure there's more.

And sometimes it is clinical negligence

Sometimes, but I'd be surprised if more than a very few ever set out to deliberately harm patients. That's why Shipman left such a scar on our collective memory."

regardless of whether its deliberate, if its proven that they were neligent then they should be struck off. This very rarely happens.

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By *nnyMan
over a year ago

Glasgow

" ..............

And sometimes it is clinical negligence

Sometimes, but I'd be surprised if more than a very few ever set out to deliberately harm patients. That's why Shipman left such a scar on our collective memory.

regardless of whether its deliberate, if its proven that they were neligent then they should be struck off. This very rarely happens. "

Medicine is an internationally transferable skill and generates much income. Moving from country to country where checks are lax is quite easy.

I'm not sure about 'rarely happens'. It certainly doesn't happen often but that's 'cos negligence is thankfully rare in the UK.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

" ..............

And sometimes it is clinical negligence

Sometimes, but I'd be surprised if more than a very few ever set out to deliberately harm patients. That's why Shipman left such a scar on our collective memory.

regardless of whether its deliberate, if its proven that they were neligent then they should be struck off. This very rarely happens.

Medicine is an internationally transferable skill and generates much income. Moving from country to country where checks are lax is quite easy.

I'm not sure about 'rarely happens'. It certainly doesn't happen often but that's 'cos negligence is thankfully rare in the UK."

You realise that clinical negligence isn't actually rare in this country when you have experienced it firsthand believe me!

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By *nnyMan
over a year ago

Glasgow

" ..........

You realise that clinical negligence isn't actually rare in this country when you have experienced it firsthand believe me!"

'Allegations' of criminal negligence aren't rare.

Proven cases are.

How many physicians? How many consultations? How many operations? How many procedures? Multiply them all up.

How many proven cases of negligence?

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By *exycleanerWoman
over a year ago

pontefract

when i first started my cleaning job at a doctors over 2 yrs ago then practice manager said the worst job in docs is the receptionists job ,he explained the reason

that they ask what is wrong with you is cos they have gps that specialise in certain areas so they can put with with the correct one .when i moved i changed my gp but not been to see them yet as i've not been ill x

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

It's true, my GP is made up of specialists so whatever you suspect, you ask to see a particular doctor. I've lived with depression and anxiety for a long time and can't take the antidepressants so when I went to see the depression specialist and explained why I had to turn down the prozac, he did fob me off, and without hesitation.

Went back immediately to see a different specialist and they gave me time off to get over it and now they've even added me to a national study on depression to monitor my health.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

" ..........

You realise that clinical negligence isn't actually rare in this country when you have experienced it firsthand believe me!

'Allegations' of criminal negligence aren't rare.

Proven cases are.

How many physicians? How many consultations? How many operations? How many procedures? Multiply them all up.

How many proven cases of negligence?"

I am talking about proven cases of clinical negligence in a court of law! They are not rare enough unfortunately. And when those cases are proven in a court of law, the NHS still refuse to apologise or strike off those responsible. As I said, I'm talking from experience

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Whilst you think you know what the problem is the gp is far better placed to actually know.

Far too easy to self diagnose these days via the internet.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Whilst you think you know what the problem is the gp is far better placed to actually know.

Far too easy to self diagnose these days via the internet."

Just for the record, personally I dont self diagnose, I have a lengthy history and unfortunately, doctors who specialise in one thing, tend not to cross-reference very well. So it's important that you know what you're dealing with before you book an appointment.

A doctor that specialises in depression for instance doesnt make the link to hypothyroidism, made especially clear when he tries to prescribe me something that will put me in a coma and kill me because he's specialised in something that involves handing out prozac or putting someone through counselling.

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By *uxtapositionMan
over a year ago

CARDIFF

" ..........

You realise that clinical negligence isn't actually rare in this country when you have experienced it firsthand believe me!

'Allegations' of criminal negligence aren't rare.

Proven cases are.

How many physicians? How many consultations? How many operations? How many procedures? Multiply them all up.

How many proven cases of negligence?

Of course they are NEVER negligent they of course, NEVER film you on hidden cameras either etc., There are good GP's and Doctors, and there are a fair percentage of bad GPs and Doctors, but don't try to convince us that a percentage are not feckless, lazy, disinterested, incompetent and perverted.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I think its annoying too but I spose they have been instructed to do that, I do get pissed off when I ring up for my blood tests and the receptionist tells me ita fine, I dont think they should be doing that either! But I guess they are told to do that so the dr doesnt have to so id say the dr's are giving the receptionists job they should be doing themselves.

I had a receptionist tell me my blood tests were fine, it was only months later when I finally saw my consultant I was told they werent fine and I needed medication.

Gp practices taking on too many patients for money leads to bad service sometimes.

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By *nnyMan
over a year ago

Glasgow

" ..........

You realise that clinical negligence isn't actually rare in this country when you have experienced it firsthand believe me!

'Allegations' of criminal negligence aren't rare.

Proven cases are.

How many physicians? How many consultations? How many operations? How many procedures? Multiply them all up.

How many proven cases of negligence?

So, how many times has it happened to you?

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

The problem is I know several people who have been Mis diagnosed by different gps at different practices, they have missed cancer, bowel problems, brain tumours, it's scary how different doctors can give different diagnosis

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"My mum had been fobbed off for years, being told to loose weight and that she had asthema. Changed gp practice, and in the new patient assesment it was picked up there was someting wrong with her heart.

Turned out to be something she was born with and could have dropped dead at any time. The problem was sorted with surgery and she's now one of the fittest/ healthiest 64 year olds going.

If she hadnt changed doctors, we would never have known."

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"The problem is I know several people who have been Mis diagnosed by different gps at different practices, they have missed cancer, bowel problems, brain tumours, it's scary how different doctors can give different diagnosis "
my dad was misdiagnosed. Gp said he had depression, gave him Prozac, despite my mum going back to gp constantly. Much later diagnosed with throat cancer, numerous visits to hosp for treatment, a year after diagnosis he passed away. Been gone 15 years now

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I do too, I was misdiagnosed too

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

" ..........

You realise that clinical negligence isn't actually rare in this country when you have experienced it firsthand believe me!

'Allegations' of criminal negligence aren't rare.

Proven cases are.

How many physicians? How many consultations? How many operations? How many procedures? Multiply them all up.

How many proven cases of negligence?

So, how many times has it happened to you?"

it happened to my sister/nephew. The solicitors who dealt with her case are the biggest law firm in the country who handle clinical negligence cases. Each year they arrange a day out for the families they have settled cases for. So I can say from experience that although I take your point re the amount of ops/medical care etc that occurrs daily where everything is fine, clinical negligence cases are not that rare.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Oh god don't get me started on GPS!!!!!

Waste of flipping time!!!!!!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Whilst you think you know what the problem is the gp is far better placed to actually know.

Far too easy to self diagnose these days via the internet.

I was not meaning or saying you were self diagnosing just a generalisation of what can happen nowadays.

As for those misdiagnosed it must be frustrating etc but end of day gps like everyone else can and do make mistakes.

By the way i am not a medical person nor do i know any just my take on matters.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

After having meningitis nearly 8 years ago. I was fobbed off with being told that there were no after effects..I [ Trix ] thought I was going mad. moved home and gp practise and now I have the best gp ever, he has been so helpful, supportive and informative, so now I know I am not going mad..I always have been ...lol x

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I used to get tonsillitis a lot, something very is to diagnose. I got it again, I knew I clearly had it, and you can tell looking at my throat. GP said I didn't have even a cold, I went back few days later as I really wasn't well again said nothing wrong with me, I then got an appointment with a different dr and they were shocked I was quickly prescribed a lot of strong anti-bitoics.

Other times they've lost years of medical history, sometimes according to them I don't even exist, been the wrong age, been wrong gender. Refused treatment as they said they can't afford it.

Now I have a fear of Dr's and takes a lot to get me to the Dr's

so quite often suffer silently.

But like anything some GP's are great others ain't.

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By *ark Gr8 Teddy BearMan
over a year ago

Wigan

I can't praise my GP enough. He's been there for me since I was a young teen and helped me through every problem I've had. But I do keep hearing stories of people not being able to see their doctor and not getting treated properly. Its also been coming out that some 'doctors' aren't even qualified but have fake documentation. I hate to say but the vast majority of these fakes are from overseas. I'm not having a go a johnny foreigner there btw. I've seen excellent doctors from all over the world. And where they're from shouldn't make any difference. But if you're not happy with your doc see another and get a second opinion. Its your right so use it.

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By *all-Eddies QosCouple
over a year ago

wirral

My point was that me and my children have had to wait and suffer....if I'm going back and forth with same problems for years surely they should twig on and refer sooner.....

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By *nnyMan
over a year ago

Glasgow

"The solicitors who dealt with her case are the biggest law firm in the country who handle clinical negligence cases. Each year they arrange a day out for the families they have settled cases for. ........"

Just a day out? The tax payers money these ambulance chasing leeches have bled from the NHS, I'd expect a week in Marbella.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

" The solicitors who dealt with her case are the biggest law firm in the country who handle clinical negligence cases. Each year they arrange a day out for the families they have settled cases for. ........

Just a day out? The tax payers money these ambulance chasing leeches have bled from the NHS, I'd expect a week in Marbella."

insensitive considering you don't know the full facts of what my family has experienced. They were not ambulance chasers, my sister found them after her baby boy suffered two strokes and was starved of oxygen at birth and is now severely disabled. It took 8 years of fighting to win compensation! If the NHS had admitted liability in the first place, a huge amount of legal costs could have been saved through the legal aid system. If anybody wastes tax payers mobey its the NHS!

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By *uxtapositionMan
over a year ago

CARDIFF

" The solicitors who dealt with her case are the biggest law firm in the country who handle clinical negligence cases. Each year they arrange a day out for the families they have settled cases for. ........

Just a day out? The tax payers money these ambulance chasing leeches have bled from the NHS, I'd expect a week in Marbella.

Indeed, unlike the GP defender - which is their right of course - I have seen the other side myself. One girlfriend suffered for years until a friend said "had your thyroid checked " - low and behold that's what it was took 25 doctors 6 years to miss that one. another girlfriend's GP must have thought every single part of her body was connected to her fanny as everytime she went with an earache or sprained ankle he tried to get her to drop her pants, quite why she took so long to get fed up with refusing and move to another practice I don't now !

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"A GPs job is to treat you in the way s/he thinks appropriate - not necessarily the way you'd prefer."

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

[Removed by poster at 14/09/13 17:52:33]

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

How many other people are experiencing this?

(And no the problem isn't nasty lol)"

get it lot you fight to get seen properly

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

" The solicitors who dealt with her case are the biggest law firm in the country who handle clinical negligence cases. Each year they arrange a day out for the families they have settled cases for. ........

Just a day out? The tax payers money these ambulance chasing leeches have bled from the NHS, I'd expect a week in Marbella."

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"A GPs job is to treat you in the way s/he thinks appropriate - not necessarily the way you'd prefer.

As above.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"A GPs job is to treat you in the way s/he thinks appropriate - not necessarily the way you'd prefer.

As above."

Although not a gp in my sisters case, I think my sister would have preferred if her obstetrician had listened to her pleas for a c section when her baby was suffering distress. The medical profession does get it horribly wrong with tragic consequences and then they are very, very good at closing ranks!

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By *nnyMan
over a year ago

Glasgow

".......very, very good at closing ranks!"

Isn't that the norm.

Have a fender bender, which is clearly your fault, and your insurance company's instructions are 'don't admit liability'.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

My daughter who suffers from costochrondritis only will see one doctor in her surgery because if she sees another other she ends up having to tell them about her condition and what it entails ....cus they not heard of it

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By *nnyMan
over a year ago

Glasgow

"My daughter who suffers from costochrondritis only will see one doctor in her surgery because if she sees another other she ends up having to tell them about her condition and what it entails ....cus they not heard of it"

Whilst it sounds like an aversion to high prices, if it's anything like as bad as Wiki suggests, it's a real bummer.

I wish her well.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Every time I have gone to the Docs I have had a good response. I have a reoccuring issue with heel spurs, now I am being refered to a clinic for treatment.

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