Patient FAQ
I would like a face-to-face appointment, when can I get this?
Not all conditions need to be seen by your GP in a face-to-face appointment.
When contacting your GP, you will undergo an assessment (called triaging) of your needs and to determine what the main issue is. Based on this assessment, the receptionist team will your determine if you need a face-to-face appointment to deal with the issue, in line with their practice policies.
If safe and appropriate to do so, a member of your practice clinical team may undertake your consultation via telephone or through a video consultation.
How can my condition be properly diagnosed via telephone or video?
Lots of common conditions can be diagnosed using mobile devices, telephone or video thanks to the experience of our GPs and their ability to recognise the signs and symptoms of conditions from the information you provide. However, if they judge that it is safer and more appropriate to organise a face-to-face appointment for you then this will be arranged.
Can I request a home-visit from my GP?
Your practice leaflet should explain their criteria for home visits but, ultimately, you can’t insist on a home visit. Generally, a home visit will only be available for patients who are housebound (either due to poor mobility, frailty, or palliative illness) or if a GP feels that a patient’s medical condition warrants it. You may be offered an initial telephone call for the GP to triage you before making this decision.
How can I access a GP when my surgery is closed?
If you require a GP after surgery hours you should telephone your surgery and listen to the recorded message which should direct you to the out of hours service covering your practice.
Where else can I get help?
Your community pharmacy can support you with a wide range of minor ailments.
The majority of conditions can be assessed and diagnosed by your doctor by telephone or video consultation. They are experienced and skilled in doing this. Using technology like this will help to protect you, your family and loved ones - and GP practice staff from the potential risk of the virus.
If you need urgent help, use the 111 service either by telephone or online at NHS 111 online. Trained professionals are on hand to direct you to the best service for your needs and will be spoken to be a clinician if needed.
If it is a life-threatening emergency, you should call 999.
Can I get a second medical opinion?
You do not have an automatic right to a second opinion but if you are not happy with your GP’s decision you can request to see another GP or a hospital-based specialist for further advice. If your GP is in agreement, an appointment can then be arranged.