Appointments

The GP is often the first port of call when a health problem develops. If the problem is beyond self-management, more complicated than a Pharmacist can resolve and symptoms are not disappearing after some time it may be time to visit the GP or our Advanced Nurse Practitioner.

Before you see the GP, it is sometimes helpful to write down the symptoms you are experiencing which you may find helpful in providing the doctor with a full practice of the problem which may include when they started, whether they change during the day and what makes them better or worse.  If you have a particularly complicated problem please ask for a longer appointment when you book.

When making the appointment you will be routinely asked what the nature of the problem is and would ask that you provide this information so the doctors or nurses have an understanding of what you are seeing them about before you walk in their door. This will also prevent wasting both your and their time if they are not the most appropriate person to see and help identify any acute cases which may need more immediate action.

If your GP cannot deal with a problem, they may refer you to a hospital for tests, treatment, or to see a consultant with specialist knowledge.