Doctors Receptionists

[Jules001]

My mum rang her Doctors yesterday to make an appointment and the receptionist asked her what the nature of her visit to the doctor was, she told her, as it wasn't of a personal nature, but I told her she should have told her that it was between you and the doctor, I know if I were going for whatever reason I wouldn't necessarily want the receptionist to know about it - does anyone else get asked this by their surgery receptionists?

[DaisyNonna]

I would notdiscuss why I want to seea doctor with a receptionist. If I need to see a nurse I am happy to to indicate it is a blood test or blood pressure test so that I do not waste the nurse's time. What I DO object to is being asked to take my own blood pressure in front of the receptionists' desk (4 different surgeries at the Health Centre) in front of a floor length window onto the car park. That is a breach of confidentiality and demeaning. I do not remember signing up for a DIY NHS.

[karenmac60]

Mine doesn't but mr mac's does and it's a pain - she always wants to know if he 'really needs to see doctor about this?'. mr mac has a lot of health problems and is on anti rejection drugs but she is loathe to give him an appointment. Last time he had a chest infection, she said he should just get some menthol crystals to inhale and he ended up in hospital for a week. I know they have their reasons but sometimes they seem to think they know more than the doctor.

[islasmum]

The doctor's practice where I used to live had at least two receptionists/dragons! They were enough to put any nervous patient off trying to see the doctor, and were quite rude and nasty to some patients, and also to some of the younger staff. Fortunately one retired, and the other one flew off on her broomstick somewhere and were replaced by pleasant staff - now that I have moved we have a very good health centre, and I can usually see a doctor within 48 hours if I need to, and the receptionists are all very nice and helpful, thank goodness - I've seen rather too many of them in the last few years!

[MissCommando]

Yes, ours always ask for an outline of the problem. My husband has to go quite regularly so just says it's an ongoing problem.
I don't agree with asking to be honest, none of their business so I'd make my answer vague. The receptionists are all quite rude/unhelpful on the whole. Don't even get me started on trying to make the bloody appointment in the 1st place lol.

[LoftyLottie]

Looking through t his thread, I am beginning to feel very grateful I live where I do with a good health centre, nice receptionists (except one young lady), confidentiality the ability to see a doctor quickly if necessary. I think I shall stay put!!!!

[FredPuli43]

Yes, mine always does. They need to establish the urgency, if any, apart from any other considerations of time etc

[craft1948]

I always fancied being a doctor's receptionist...........I was told I was too tactful.