Advocating for Yourself: GP Appointments.

Having recently experienced a GP appointment where I didn’t feel listened to, it made me think about the best possible way to advocate for myself in relation to healthcare.

My job gives me a certain overview of different illnesses/ symptoms/ red flags etc (sometimes both a blessing and a curse!) and after giving an account via eConsult, an emergency appointment was arranged. However, during the consultation, I felt minimised and my concerns were not listened to.

Most GP appointments are 10 minutes long, however, in that time, the GP needs to be able to read the notes, conduct the assessment and provide advice and then write up the notes before moving on to the next patient. This does not leave a lot of time for discussion.

The Royal College of General Practitioners recognised this and have called for 15-minute GP appointments as standard. However, in a landscape where the demand for appointments is great, it is unlikely that this would be implemented.

Therefore, with time being limited, there are a number of steps that may help to get the most out of a GP appointment.

• Think about your main reason for booking the appointment. Be clear in your concerns and rest assured that there is no reason to be embarrassed at all. It is very likely that the GP has seen it many times before!

• Note down your symptoms to help you focus in the appointment. When did your symptoms begin? What are they? Is there any pattern to them? How are they impacting your life?

• Don’t try and interpret your symptoms or self-diagnose. The internet has many uses but it is not a substitute for years of medical training.

• Do you have a family history of the issue you are concerned about?

• Be honest with your GP about how you are feeling. If your symptoms leave you unable to do the things you normally do, tell them.

• Take someone with you to support you if you feel that this would help.

• Make a note of any medications you are taking, including any supplements/ herbal remedies that won’t necessarily be on your medical record.

• Ask questions – how long will tests take etc? Should you make lifestyle changes?

If, following an appointment, you are not satisfied with your consultation you can share your concerns with the Practice. Explain that you are uncertain about the advice given/ diagnosis made and ask for advice on a second opinion. In my case, this was the path that I took and I was seen by another GP the following day. My concerns and worries were immediately alleviated.

The Patients Association provides useful information and guidance to patients and can be accessed here: https://www.patients-association.org.uk/

Here at Lanyon Bowdler our specialist Clinical Negligence Team have the knowledge and experience to assess your enquiry. If you wish to discuss bringing a claim and would like a free consultation, please contact us via the 'Get in Touch' button below or by telephone on 0800 652 3371.