Why can't I get an appointment with my GP when I want one?

Obviously GPs cannot work for 24 hours a day. We are restricted by time in the number of appointments we can offer. We do have home visits to do each day and also deal with the multitude of patient correspondence we receive. If you do need to be seen by a doctor urgently you will be offered an appointment but it may not be with your own GP.

Why can I not always see my own doctor?

This question has basically been answered above. Some days appointments are booked up very quickly. Your own GP would prefer to see his own registered patients but this is not always possible. Please be assured that whichever GP you see you will receive the same medical treatment you would have received by your own GP.

Why can't I get an appointment with a Nurse on the day like I can with the GPs?

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Why does my Practice Nurse only hold clinics on certain days?

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Why does it take so long to get a blood test appointment?

If the doctor thinks a blood test needs to be done immediately they will normally make arrangements there and then or,in many cases, they will do it themselves. If not, as the doctors are aware of the usual wait time which can often be several weeks, you can rest assured that the delay is not a problem.

Why can I not always get through on the telephone?

We have approximately 11,000 patients registered with us. Mornings are an extremely busy time on the phone as this is when the majority of patients phone in to make appointments, request home visits or acute prescriptions. We request that patients contact us after 2.00 p.m. with routine requests, i.e. requests for test results.

Why, when I have an infection does my doctor not always prescribe antibiotics?

You may be surprised that you have not been given a prescription for an antibiotic when you have been told "you have an infection". This is because many infections are caused by viruses. Antibiotics kill bacteria but have no effect on viruses. Viruses cause most infections of the nose, throat, ears and chest. Stomach upsets (diarrhoea and vomiting) as well as the flu are also viral infections. Our own immune system gets rid of these infections, antibiotics have no effect. There are also good reasons to not use antibiotics when they are not needed; antibiotics may cause side effects such as diarrhoea, rashes, feeling sick, etc. These may develop on top of any other symptoms from the virus infection. In the past, overuse of antibiotics when they have not been necessary has led to some bacteria becoming resistant to treatment. This means that they are not as effective when they are really needed. Antibiotics do not speed up recovery of most nose, throat, ear, chest, stomach and flu illnesses. For more information see 'Antibiotics - Don't wear me out' www.doh.gov.uk/antibioticresistance

So what can you do?

Viruses can go on for several days and make you feel unwell. We can't give anything to get rid of the infection but you can use things to ease the symptoms such as paracetamol or aspirin to ease any aches, pains, headaches and reduce fever. Aspirin must not be given to children under 12. Paracetamol liquid such as Calpol and Disprol are best for children. Also having a lot to drink prevents mild dehydration. This may develop if there is a fever and can cause a headache and feeling of tiredness (common with virus infections) much worse. Do not wrap up but try to cool down if you have a fever. This is particularly important in young children. Take the clothes off young children if they have a fever and give paracetamol (Calpol). It is quite safe and a good idea for children to get some fresh air. Do not over wrap them when you take them out, just put on their normal outside clothing. You can also use the technique of 'tepid sponging'- placing the child in a bath of luke warm (NOT COLD) water to help bring the temperature down. Your pharmacist is also always a good source of advice.

What if symptoms change?

Most virus infections clear without complications. Occasionally a virus infection may develop into a more serious condition. It is best to see a doctor to review the situation if the illness appears to change, becomes worse or if you are worried about any new symptoms.

Is it the family doctor I need?

For some very serious conditions such as severe bleeding, chest pain suggesting a heart attack, or severe shortness of breath, it may be more sensible to dial 999 or ask for an ambulance. The crew on board the ambulance provide emergency care as well as rapid transport to hospital. This is often the quickest lifesaving treatment. In cases of injury, where a broken bone is suspected or stitches may be needed, going straight to the hospital often makes more sense than calling your family doctor, who may not have the facilities to deal with this kind of problem.

Minor Ailments

Many common illnesses (coughs, colds, sore throats, ear-ache and upset stomachs) may be eased by a simple home remedy or medicine such as a painkiller or other medicine easily obtained from your chemist, who will be happy to advise you. Remember the quick and easy way of getting medical advice is to call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or using the link at the top of this page.