How to make the most out the available GP appointments
As we're sure you are all aware GP appointments are getting harder and harder to get. There are some things that you can do to help us help you use the appointments more efficiently:
- Book routine appointments ahead of time
- Use same day appointments for urgent problems only
- Call after 10.30am for routine appointments to avoid the rush
- Book appointments online - ask our receptionists for details for your own log in for this
- Alternatively use the Patient On-Line service for a clinical or administrative query
- If you cannot make an appointment or are running late please let us know. You may have to rebook if late. There are lots of appointments that are not attended and could be used for other patients
Making the most of your consultation
- Wear your hearing aid if you have one
- Bring any new medication or hospital letters are we may not have received them yet
- If you have more than one problem, please request a double appointment, i.e. a 20 minute appointment
- Appointments are 10 minutes long. This includes discussion, examination if needed, ordering of tests, discussing a plan and the writing up of the consultation
- Always start with the most important problem
- Consider if a telephone appointment is more appropriate, for example, results, queries or advice