The loss of face-to-face GP consultations
sir – It used to be said that a good GP could tell what was wrong with 90 per cent of his or her patients by the time they’d sat down. This may be a slight exaggeration, but it is true that there is no better way of detecting early signs of disease, or other problems, than the face-to-face consultation.
Many patients have abused this service. Some make appointments just so they can get a free bottle of Calpol. Others don’t turn up but later go to A&E; while some bring great lists of requests for a 10-minute slot.
And, like most GPS, I have missed things in consultations. However, many would agree that their craft is often more art and instinct than science: being able to ask a patient if you can take their blood pressure, or inquire about a bruise on their arm, is invaluable. Video consultations have their place, but not all symptoms are revealed to the camera lens.
So much can be learnt and taught in face-to-face consultations. Their loss will reduce GPS to box-tickers – until automated services replace them entirely. That will be a sad day indeed. Dr John Behardien
Manchester sir – I am so tired of being told that GP surgeries are closed. They are not.
Every day, my colleagues and I deal with every concern raised by the patients who contact us. It is currently 12:39, and I’ve already conducted consultations by phone, text, face to face and in a patient’s home. We are not open to the extent that patients are allowed to sit sharing germs in the waiting room. Should we be?
Dr Lesley Weiss
Harrogate, North Yorkshire
sir – I was a nurse. I am now in my 70s and in good health, but last week suffered symptoms that could indicate high blood pressure.
Since we have been assured that the NHS is open, I called my surgery. A doctor called me back and agreed that I needed a blood pressure check. I tried to arrange to see a nurse for this, only to be told that nothing could be done for a week.
Yesterday, our dog needed a repeat prescription. I was told that the vet would need to check her first. Would 5:15 that afternoon be convenient? Mary Sutherland
Bishop Auckland, Co Durham