How to get seen faster by a GP (5 ways)

How to get seen faster by a GP (5 ways)

In this article we will describe how to get seen faster by a GP.

1. Be polite, persistent, and patient (the ‘3 Ps’) – and use the right words

Call up as soon as the appointments line becomes free. Be prepared to wait in a queue and be prepared to explain why you need to see someone, and soon.

It’s important to express the urgency of the problem, and that your symptoms are getting worse. Describing symptoms – especially red flag symptoms – that get the receptionists and GPs attention helps.

2. Make use of online services

Many GP practices now have online services, and these can help you avoid the queues.

3. Ring NHS111

NHS111 is a free number that allows you to speak to a health professional, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They can arrange an emergency face-to-face appointment with a GP.

4. Go to an alternative NHS service where you can see a GP face-to-face

These are especially important if you think you are ill, but not that ill, and need to be examined:

• Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC). This may be on the same site as your nearest A&E
• Minor Injury/Illness Unit  (MIU). Ditto
• Walk-in Centre. This may be on the hospital site or elsewhere.

They are very good out of hours, as most open 7 days a week, 8am-8pm. Check where it is and its opening hours before you go.

5. See anther health professionals at or linked to a GP surgery

They may be ‘better’ than a GP for your problem. Here are examples.

• Practice nurse – epilepsy, Parkinsons, thyroid, CKD, BP, diabetes, cholesterol review; leg ulcers, dressings.
• Midwife – pregnancy related problems
• Health visitor – baby and young child problems
• IAPT (NHS counsellor) – depression, anxiety
• ‘First contact’ physiotherapist – specialise in musculoskeletal problems (e.g. shouulder, neck, back, knee, hip pain)
• Clinical pharmacist – medication, CKD, BP, diabetes, cholesterol review.

Other advice

Note. You can refer yourself to many of these health professionals, without going through your GP. You can either contact them directly (by phone, or on GP surgery website) or via the receptionist at the GP surgery.

Make full use of appointment times

You’ve got limited time with your GP – make sure you’re making the most of it. That means making notes about what you want to cover, what your symptoms are, and what options you want to explore.

Use your health benefits

Since the pandemic, health and wellbeing have been high on workplace agendas, and many organisations have invested in online GP services. If you are having trouble talking to your own GP, or if it’s out of hours, it’s time to make sure you are using that benefit, and making the appointment you need on your own schedule.

Summary

We have explained how to get seen faster by a GP (5 ways). We hope it has helped you.

Last Reviewed on 13 March 2024