Dear LPG,
 
I read, with interest, the information about how doctors see the ongoing problems that we clients are experiencing. As a result I have learned that many GP practises now have a website and making contact via email is another option.
 
I have had a medical problem for some time, and I have visited the doctor, who has regularly given me creams, preparations and other medicines to try, none of which had any real effect. I accept that the GP does not know everything but, on one occasion, I was promised an appointment with a specialist at the hospital which I thought a reasonable progression.  A month went by and I heard nothing; no letter or other communication while my medical problem continued.  I made three unsuccessful calls to my practice where there was no reply.
 
I eventually found the practice’s website and sent an email asking when I could expect news about this appointment and as a result the surgery phoned me and the appointment was arranged for a date just two weeks after my email was sent.
 
So I have to conclude that although an appointment with a specialist is not guaranteed to fix everything, a polite email is another way to make successful contact with your GP.

BH, Catford