Patients ‘fear GP receptionists will pry into symptoms’
HOSTILE GP surgery receptionists are discouraging patients from trying to see their doctor, a study shows.
Four in ten adults delay making an appointment because they fear discussing symptoms with front desk staff.
It raises concerns that receptionists are putting patients off seeing their GP even if they think they have symptoms of cancer or other life-threatening illnesses.
Cancer Research UK was investigating why Britain’s cancer survival rates lag so far behind other Western countries. Its experts said receptionists needed more training on speaking ‘sensitively’ to patients – and should not be left to make vital decisions.
The study of 1,986 adults published in the Journal of Public Health asked them what acted as ‘barriers’ to seeing their GP.
Some 40 per cent blamed having to discuss symptoms with receptionists either loudly at the front desk or over the phone. Dr Richard Roope, Cancer Research UK’s GP expert, said: ‘We need to ensure patients are able to get appointments at a convenient time, can book one to see a particular doctor and aren’t put off coming to see them in the first place.’
Concerns were raised about ‘Ayatollah’ receptionists this summer when a toddler with the worst case of chickenpox doctors had ever seen was told he didn’t need an appointment. The Mail highlighted the case of Jasper Allen, who ended up hospitalised for five days.
Research also showed that 48 per cent of women and 37 per cent of men had difficulties getting an appointment. Another 45 per cent of women and 41 per cent of men said it was difficult to get one at a convenient time.
Dr Jodie Moffat, head of early diagnosis at the charity, said: ‘Don’t let anything put you off. The chances of surviving cancer are greater when it’s caught early.’ And Dr Maureen Baker, Chairman of the Royal College of GPs, said receptionists were ‘not in a position to make decisions about our patients’ health’.
Meanwhile GPs are being given a guide by top surgeons on spotting one of the deadliest cancers. All 9,500 UK practices have been sent a 96-page book – plus posters – on detecting head and neck tumours.