Be prepared and use your GP appointment wisely
We see our GPs more than any other healthcare professional. Here, chairwoman of the Royal College of GPs Rebecca Payne explains how you can get the most out of your visit
risen with demand, and minimising avoidable appointments will help ensure patients with complex health issues can be seen by GPs. wait until they are opening the door to leave to bring up the issue that is worrying them the most.
We understand that some patients want to build up trust over a conversation, particularly if you are speaking to a new GP, but it is really important you get to the most important issue first.
Consider writing a list to make sure you cover everything you want to.
This can cover all the symptoms you are experiencing, as well as what it is you are hoping will then be done for you.
With complex illnesses, it can be easy to forget to mention something important and that is the last thing either you or your GP will want.
If your GP does not suggest the option you are looking for, then ask.
It may not be an appropriate course of action and if that is the case your GP will explain why, but do not go away wondering.
Make sure you are clear on what will happen next.
What happens after an appointment is usually the most important thing so make sure you are clear on your plan of action.
If a GP has said something you do not understand then please ask them to clarify.
The more you prepare for an appointment, the more you will get out of it. As you book an appointment you should also consider how healthcare services at a community level are developing.
Your surgery may well have changed in recent years. It is more common for GPs to be working alongside other healthcare professionals in one building.
This includes (but is not limited to) physiotherapists, paramedics, pharmacists and nurses.
Increasingly, “multi-disciplinary working” is how the NHS will deliver care in people’s communities.
We have an ageing population, alongside an increase in patients with complex, co-occurring illnesses.
With resources stretched it is more and more important to ensure patients are seen by the appropriate people.
If your surgery contains other healthcare professionals you should be open to seeing them.
You can take advice from a receptionist about who would be most appropriate to see.
Every member of staff in a surgery is trained to handle your case with confidentiality and is committed to ensuring you receive high quality patient care.
Despite the considerable strain that general practice in Wales is under, GPs are committed to getting the best outcomes for patients.
We want to ensure that you are happy with the care you receive and I hope this advice will be useful in ensuring that happens.