Questions put off GP patients

Doctors’ receptionists could be putting sick people off visiting their GP by quizzing patients, according to a new survey.

Four in 10 people questioned for Cancer Research UK said they disliked having to discuss their problems with administrative staff to get an appointment. But health bosses said patients must be forceful if they have symptoms that need investigating, while the government vows to fund training to encourage receptionists to be sensitive to patients’ needs. Healthwatch Kent is asking patients to share their experiences in confidence on 0808 801 0102.

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