One Problem Per Consultation policy
We have a ‘One Problem Per Consultation’ policy
We kindly ask that all patients try and stick to our 'One Problem Per Consultation' policy.
We know that getting an appointment with the doctor is sometimes difficult and that some patients ‘save’ their problems and present them to the doctor at the same time, with or without a list. We also know that the clinician may run late. All of this increases the tendency for patients to present multiple problems to their doctor/clinician at one consultation.
Each appointment is only 10 minutes long. Ten minutes is not a lot of time, even for just one problem, e.g., 1 minute to get to the doctor’s room and sit down, 3 minutes to tell a history, 3-4 minutes to perform a targeted examination, 2 minutes to explain, advise and treat. There is no time left in the ten minutes to write up notes, fill out forms, dictate referrals or speak to other team members for advice.
Presenting the clinician with multiple problems means that there is a real increased risk that mistakes will be made and things to be missed as the clinician may be inclined to rush, particularly if other patients are waiting. One of Primary Care’s main purposes is to detect serious diseases early.
By limiting each appointment to one issue, we prioritise patient safety and quality of care. This approach allows our healthcare professionals to dedicate their expertise and attention to addressing the specific concern at hand, reducing the risk of oversight or miscommunication. Clinical safety is very important to us.
We do consider that GP appointments are a limited resource and we would kindly ask that such a service be used with care and consideration. Therefore please do not be offended if the doctor asks you to rebook for your other problems. We are working in your best interests to keep you safe.
We would always encourage patients to book double appointments if there are multiple problems that need discussing.