How do you get a GP or doctor to see you in the UK? These are 5 ways.
1. Contact the doctor at the right time and use the right words
Call up as soon as the appointments phone line opens at your GPs surgery – usually 8am. Be prepared to wait in a queue and be prepared to explain why you need to see someone, and soon.
The Trick
3 Ps = be persistent, patient and polite
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 attention of the receptionists and your GP.
But if its not urgent, it is best to ring in the afternoon, when things are quieter.
2. Make use of online services
Many GP practices now have an online booking system on their website, and these can help you avoid the queues. You may be able to book an appointment today or tomorrow on their website.
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.
NHS111 can arrange a GP appointment for you
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 assessed and examined by a doctor today:
- Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC). This may be on the same site as your nearest A&E
- Minor Injury/Illness Unit (MIU)
- 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 (e.g. Google ‘UTC Gloucester’) is and its opening hours before you go.
5. See a nurse practitioner at your GPs, or a specialist nurse practitioner that works with your hospital consultant
Another option is a nurse practitioner. These are qualified nurses who have completed further training to allow them to assess, treat and often prescribe. Also, if needed, they can get a GP, or your hospital consultant (or their deputy) to see you see you that day.
