Receptionists provide an important link for patients with the practice and are your initial contact point for general enquiries. They can provide basic information on services and results and direct you to the right person depending on your health issue or query. Receptionists make most of the patient appointments with the GPs and nurses. They also perform other important tasks such as issuing repeat prescriptions and dealing with prescription enquiries, dealing with financial claims, dealing with patient records and carrying out searches and practice audits. From time to time receptionists might ask you the reason for an appointment. They are not being nosey but are trying to place you with the right health professional for your condition. If you do not want to say that's absolutely fine but it can help to get you to the right person quickly. Receptionists might also signpost you to other really useful services such as a community pharmacy or Pharmacy First provided by pharmacies. This might be a quicker and more helpful service to you for minor ailments and complaints. We will always see you but this could be a good first option if you are unsure whether you really need to see a GP. Telephone appointments are available for patients who need to discuss something with a GP but do not need examination i.e. medicines reviews, talking about referrals, sick notes if you have already seen a GP before etc. Ask the receptionists they will help. |