Long wait and upsetting treatment
On 11th Nov I called Shirley Medical Centre for a doctor's note. This was because I had coronavirus and wasn't well enough to return to work after the 10 days' isolation. I was number 39 in the queue and waited 1 hour and 5 mins for the call to be answered. When the call was finally answered my details were taken and I was promised a call back, which I received 3 hours later. At the call back, the staff member told me I couldn't have a sick note, as the doctor (Dr Ali) didn't believe I had coronavirus. Their records only showed a negative test result (which I had had 3 days prior to the positive). I offered to send my positive test result or to explain my symptoms to the GP, but the staff member repeatedly stated that their records were fully up-to-date. I became very upset on the phone, as I was also feeling so unwell at the time. Eventually she went back to the GP, who did issue a note but there was no apology or any acknowledgement that I was actually telling the truth. I very rarely visit the GP at all, so was incredibly shocked at being assumed to be dishonest. I contacted the surgery later that day - I did not make a complaint but simply left some feedback - that I believed there may be issues with patients' records from track and trace. I have had no reply to this. I feel so distressed by the whole encounter - I have ongoing symptoms that I would like to discuss with a GP, but I actually feel I can't use this service again. I know that the NHS is dealing with very difficult circumstances and patients are prepared to make allowances, but I don't think this extends to the waiting times or the level of care that I have received.