Needed a check up after an operation about six weeks ago, had to have an online assessment, and then do a phone triage before I can be considered for an appointment. Is this standard everywhere in the UK now? I understand why, but it’s a proper ball ache.

I’m also aware this is a seriously dull post / question even by my standards, so here is a gif of Daisy Lowe in a latex nurses uniform to make up for it.

In my experience, yes. I’ve got a few post-COVID complications which I’m working through with my GP. Even when we’ve had a consultation and he’s asked me to book a follow up, I have to have a 5 min telephone triage call before I can book a further appointment. I get why the red tape helps protect scarce services, but implementation leaves a fair bit to be desired…

    vinnyt77 Gotcha, I was wondering if it was just my place.

    Whenever I talk to the reception staff, I’m left with the impression that they would rather I fucked off and died instead of actually seeking any medical help. I’m not if it’s a deterrent mechanism or if they should all be working in a different industry more suited to their temperaments.

      Same here.

      Raise query through app, usually a few follow up questions, phone consult booked if needed.

      Only time I go near GP/Hospital is for blood tests.

      Works well once you get into it. Better than ringing reception all day

      Triage at doctors surgeries usually does consist of some non-medically trained reception battle axe asking whether you are about to die, and if not why you are phoning the doctor as they are rather busy don’t you know.

      I actually like the idea of an app. I have one with Bupa and will be using my phone camera in macro mode to show them my piles in glorious technicolor close up.

        Millsy I’ve used Bupa’s video GP consultation service for a chronic shoulder issue, and actually really impressed. Had a video call within 2 hours, got a referral letter to an orthopaedic consultant the same day. Really slick.

            Same with AXA, added bonus of being able to select doctor, with pictures 🤙

              Mad_Cyril did you go for a swarthy Dr Kildaire type? ’Ooh doc. I can do a prostate self assessment while you’re on’

                  Mad_Cyril For when you really don’t want to take the chance that the Dr called ‘Jo’ is female, and you’ve called to talk about your exploding ball-sack?

                    vinnyt77 Bupa are good with technology. From a provider perspective they have a good in house invoicing and payments system. their rates are not the best though.

                      Seen my GP about 2 things in 4 years. Been excellent both times. Tried to make me speak specifically to a parruicukar GP once but managed to swerve that. Other times have been on the phone. Once we had a good old natter at the end of surgery.

                      I occasionally ave to try and speak to GPs. Almost impossible to get through.

                      Also there is loads and loads of stuff that has been brewing through lockdowns. We see it in pre-op clinic. :Loads of new diagnoses of kidney disease, anaemia, etc. All stuff that gets sent back to the GPs. Its a difficult job. Mind you some were posting how much they earned on another forum the other day and tht made me feel a lot less sorry for them. Every single GP partner earned more than me as a consultant.

                      vinnyt77 I’ve got a few post-COVID complications

                      What are they if you don’t mind me asking, Vin? I’ve been 100% so far but my radar is on at all times for any changes I notice.

                          LT42 No worries buddy. Occasional shortness of breath and fatigue. Very occasional chest pains. Some issues with short-term memory / an inability to concentrate.

                          • LT42 replied to this.

                              Reckon I was in there for about a minute before being told I was being sent back to the specialist consultant. No Daisy Lowe types in there. Sad face.

                                Amps these apps need a ‘Carry On’ mode imo.

                                  vinnyt77 Fatigue was my main symptom and I’ve had nothing since, touch wood. My brother in law’s symptoms have dragged on for a while, similar to yours and he’s younger than me an all. Luck of the draw really. Hope they subside and you’re back to full capacity soon, mate.

                                    When I had my small problem last September. After the initial phone call I was then called by my doctor a few hours later and met him soon after. Within two weeks from that I was booked in to have a colonoscopy.