Lemmy

Good to hear other people's perspectives. Jenijenjen what did you find stressful about the pre-covid system? My own perspective is that online consultations are good for minor issues or advice but should not become the default mode of interaction outside of emergencies, or a hoop you have to jump through in order to see a doctor. Health centres should be community hubs where you feel welcome and ideally have a long-term relationship with the same doctor. jazzer, I was contacted by the NHS recently about getting a general check up, which apparently is recommended at my age. I mentioned that when trying to arrange an appointment and was told 'we didn't send you any letter!' No awareness of it even though it appears to be NHS policy and designed to catch problems ahead of time. No joined up communications. It would be interesting to hear if other local practices are running similar policies to FHGP with regards to appointments.

I tried to book a consultation appointment over the phone the other day and was told that they were only accepting emergency cases for face-to-face appointments. I was directed towards booking an e-consult appointment, even though the issue I wanted to discuss with the doctor required an in-person examination. I have tried to steer clear of the doctors over the last few years because I know they have been so overloaded with covid cases. I wondered if anyone with connections there knows what the current status is. Are they dealing with a backlog? Whenever I contact them I feel pushed away. It seems so difficult to access basic health care. I can accept that others have more urgent needs than me, but at the same time health care should be preventative, not just for emergencies. What I'm trying to work out is whether this is part of a general malaise in an underfunded health service, or if it's specific to FHGP. And whether it's likely to change in the foreseeable future.

Brilliant, that looks about perfect...

OK, thanks anyway MarkT

Thanks everyone, I'll follow up on your suggestions.

Thanks. Hoping for something a bit closer to home if possible. Someone mentioned a place in Nunhead but I don't have any details...

Hi all, I'm a beginner drummer who's looking for somewhere to practice every now and then. I don't have my own kit. Does anyone know of a local space with a kit for rent? Thanks