‘Appalled’ campaigners fear patients won’t co-operate with pilot scheme
HEALTH campaigners and Observer readers say they are ‘appalled’ by the scheme and fear patients won’t cooperate.
Russ McLean, chairman of the Patient Voices Group in Pennine Lancashire, said: “I’m appalled. This is something that 111 was set up to do so in my eyes it’s a duplication.
“Lets not forget that receptionists do a very difficult job in already trying to field out those people that they think need to see a GP. The CCG have not engaged with the public and patients fully about it.
“Patients are telling me that they have no intention of discussing with the receptionist their medical problems because it’s a private issue between them and their GP. It’s the patients right not to answer that question.”
Hyndburn councillor Munsif Dad, portfolio holder for health, said he ‘shared people’s concerns’.
He said: “There are very important and personal details that patients need to discuss and I think an extended and detailed consultation with the appropriate stakeholders would have been better to find out exactly what the feeling is out there.
“I am all for doing what we can to for people to gain access to the appropriate medical services, but it has to be done properly and with all the stakeholders on board.”
Observer readers have also given their reaction on our Facebook page after we asked them if they would be happy discussing problems with a receptionist.
Shirley Southward wrote: “No, and my reason for saying no is because our receptionist’s desk and waiting room are all in the same area, so anyone waiting can hear everything. Also I don’t think it’s up to the receptionist to decide whether or not you should see your own doctor.”
Becky Grant said: “Receptionists are NOT doctors/nurses. They have no right whatsoever to know our private business. I don’t discuss anything with them! Why me or my kids need to see a professional has nothing to do with a receptionist!”
Janet Wallace said Definitely not’ while Toni Marie Long said it was ‘Absolutely ridiculous!’
However Chris Bamber wrote: “The good thing is it might help towards stopping thoughtless people getting unnecessary appointments and clogging the system up for those that genuinely need to see a doctor.”
Laura Doherty added: “Some things wouldn’t be too bad to explain but other complaints can be very personal.”