Very rarely have the Drs/nurses I have seen been able to help. After travel in Asia, I returned with a skin complaint. Had already seen 2x Drs whilst away, was prescribed antihistamines after advising the Easthampstead doctor I had tried various ones over the past 3 months none of which helped. After a 2nd wasted appt, I was sent for a blood test which tested for enzymes linked to gout and other irrelevant illnesses. Was then followed with a 3rd wasted appointment, another blood test and more antihistamines. Then asked if the rash could be scabies, was advised definitely not. Consulted pharmacist who said it was worth trying a scabies treatment and low and behold it worked! The Drs had 3-4 opportunities to diagnose this and took no interest in actually checking my skin. A lot of discomfort and time wasted over a 3 month period after my return to the UK that could have been contagious to my family. Another occasion went to get a repeat prescription for contraceptive pill and was told the nurse I was booked to see could not see me unless a Dr signed me off as I had not visited for a year even though blood pressure etc was fine. Refused to leave without and was then only given 3 months rather than a 6 months. Previously had booked a smear test and was told the practitioner I had booked could not do this. As I was moving overseas, the attitude of the receptionist was that I should not bother re-booking as I would not be in the UK to action any test results. Multiple times have been called by practice to re-schedule appointments on the day even after booking in advance. Reception advised I could discuss 2 issues in one appointment but Dr said I would have to have a 2nd appointment. Minimum 2 week wait to get an appointment. I had an 8:40 apt and saw the Dr turn up after I had arrived, his 8:30 apt was still waiting to be seen, before the day had begun the surgery was running 15 mins late! Will be changing practice when I return to flat in Bracknell.
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