YOUR APPOINTMENT
CHAPERONE POLICY
To remove any misunderstanding and either clinician or patient feeling uncomfortable it is normal policy to use or consider using a chaperone. Patients will always be offered the services of a chaperone for any intimate examination.
HOW TO GET THE BEST FROM YOUR APPOINTMENT WITH THE DOCTOR OR NURSE.
Appointments with the doctor or nurse are set at 10 minute intervals, so to help you get the best from your appointment time we have some tips and advice to offer:
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Don't be put off by a GP who runs late- they may be spending needed time with patients. One day you may appreciate them running late for you.
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It is tempting to bring a list of unrelated problems, but consider what is achievable in 10 minutes. 4 problems in 10 minutes; that's 150 seconds each. It is often better to come back again and spend more time on a problem rather than squeeze as many as you can into one ten minute appointment.
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Before you see the GP, work out in your own mind what you are worried about and highlight any particular concerns. Consider preparing short notes including how you would describe your symptoms.
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Get to the point; don't beat about the bush and don't keep important issues until the end.
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Wear accessible clothing if you are likely to need to undress for an examination.
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Make sure you understand what happens next, if you are not sure ask to go through the plan again.
MISSED APPOINTMENTS:
FINALLY - IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO KEEP YOUR APPOINTMENT PLEASE LET US KNOW SO WE CAN OFFER IT TO SOMEONE ELSE.
HELP US TO KEEP WAITING TIMES DOWN.
Thank you.