One Problem Per Consultation

We kindly ask that all patients try and stick to ‘One Problem Per Consultation’.  The main reason for this request is mainly for clinical safety.

We know that getting an appointment is sometimes difficult and that some patients may ‘save’ their problems and present them all at the same time. We also know that the clinician may run late. All of this increases the tendency for patients to present multiple problems to the clinicians at one consultation.

Each appointment has a limited time so for example if the 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 GP/ANP 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.

GP/ANPs cannot see huge numbers of patients with multiple problems and continue to practice safely and effectively.

We do consider that GP/ANP 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 speak to reception if there are multiple problems that need discussing and cannot be covered in one appointment.