Category: Cardiff GP Surgeries

What to Do When Your GP Stonewalls You:

A Guide to Advocating for Your Health

Your general practitioner (GP) is often your first point of contact when seeking medical advice and treatment. GPs play a crucial role in managing your health and referring you to specialists when necessary. However, there may be instances when you feel that your GP is not adequately addressing your concerns or stonewalling you. When this happens, it’s essential to advocate for your health and navigate the situation effectively.

Understanding Stonewalling:

Stonewalling by your GP can manifest in various ways. It may involve dismissing your symptoms, not taking your concerns seriously, or avoiding discussions about your health altogether. While GPs have a demanding job, it’s important that they listen to your concerns, provide clear explanations, and involve you in decision-making about your healthcare.

Steps to Take When Facing Stonewalling

1. Communicate Clearly: The first step in addressing stonewalling by your GP is to communicate your concerns clearly. Be concise and assertive about your symptoms, questions, or worries. Keep a journal of your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This documentation can help you present a comprehensive picture of your health concerns to your GP.
2. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about your condition or treatment options. Your GP should be willing to explain medical terms and provide you with information to help you make informed decisions. If your GP avoids answering your questions or seems evasive, ask them directly to address your concerns.
3. Seek a Second Opinion: If you feel that your GP is not taking your health concerns seriously, consider seeking a second opinion from another medical professional. A second opinion can provide you with a fresh perspective and alternative treatment options. You can ask your GP for a referral to another specialist or seek one independently.
4. Advocate for Yourself: Advocating for your health is essential. If your GP is stonewalling, be persistent in seeking the care you deserve. Explain the impact of your symptoms on your daily life, work, or overall well-being. Emphasize the importance of addressing your concerns promptly to prevent potential complications.
5. Bring a Supportive Friend or Family Member: Sometimes, having a supportive friend or family member accompany you to your GP appointments can be beneficial. They can provide emotional support and act as a witness to the interactions between you and your GP. This can help ensure that your concerns are taken seriously.
6. Request a Different GP: If your efforts to address stonewalling do not yield positive results, you may consider requesting to see a different GP within the same practice. A different GP may have a different approach and be more receptive to your concerns.
7. Lodge a Complaint: If you believe that your GP’s stonewalling constitutes a serious breach of professionalism, you can consider filing a complaint with the medical practice or relevant medical board. Ensure that you document the incidents and have any witnesses provide statements if necessary.

What rights do you have to have healthcare from your GP and can they refuse to support you?

In many countries, individuals have certain rights when it comes to healthcare from their general practitioner (GP). While these rights can vary depending on the healthcare system and the specific laws and regulations of your country, there are some general principles that apply in many places. It’s important to note that the details of these rights may change over time, so it’s a good idea to check with your local healthcare authority or legal resources for the most up-to-date information in your area.

Here are some common rights you might have when seeking healthcare from your GP:

1. Access to Healthcare: In many countries, citizens have the right to access healthcare services, including primary care from a GP. This means you have the right to seek medical advice and treatment from a GP.
2. Informed Consent: You have the right to be fully informed about your medical condition, treatment options, and potential risks and benefits. Your GP should provide you with clear and understandable information to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare.
3. Confidentiality: Your GP is legally required to keep your medical information confidential. They cannot share your medical history or details about your condition with others without your consent, except in specific situations outlined by law (e.g., reporting certain infectious diseases).
4. Respect and Dignity: You have the right to be treated with respect and dignity by your GP and the healthcare team. Discrimination or disrespectful behavior is generally not allowed.
5. Refusal of Treatment: While GPs have an ethical duty to provide care, there can be circumstances where they may refuse treatment. These situations often involve conflicts of interest, such as when a GP is not qualified to provide a specific treatment or when a patient’s request goes against medical ethics (e.g., requesting unnecessary medications). However, refusal of care must typically be based on legitimate medical or ethical grounds.
6. Second Opinions: You have the right to seek a second opinion from another healthcare provider if you have concerns about your diagnosis or treatment plan. Your GP should support your decision to seek a second opinion.
7. Complaints and Feedback: Most healthcare systems have mechanisms for patients to file complaints or provide feedback about their care. You can typically voice your concerns about your GP’s behavior, treatment, or any other aspect of your healthcare.
8. Access to Medical Records: You generally have the right to access your medical records and request copies. This allows you to review your medical history and ensure accuracy.

Can GPs respond by letter if you have raised your medical issues to them by letter?

GPs can respond to your medical concerns and questions by letter if you’ve raised those issues with them in writing. In fact, written communication is a common and accepted way for patients to communicate with their healthcare providers, including GPs.

Here’s how the process typically works:

1. Sending a Letter: You can send a letter to your GP detailing your medical concerns, questions, or any information you wish to communicate. Make sure your letter is clear and concise and includes relevant details about your symptoms, medical history, and any treatments or medications you’re currently taking.
2. Receiving a Response: Your GP will review your letter and may discuss it with you during a subsequent appointment. Depending on the nature of your concerns and the urgency of the situation, your GP may choose to respond by letter or recommend an in-person or phone consultation.
3. Content of the Response: If your GP chooses to respond by letter, they will typically address your concerns and provide recommendations, advice, or further instructions in the letter. They may also schedule a follow-up appointment if necessary.
4. Patient Portal: In some healthcare systems, GPs and medical practices offer online patient portals where you can securely exchange messages, view test results, and communicate about your health. This can be an efficient way to have written communication with your GP.
5. Phone Follow-Up: In certain cases, your GP may prefer to discuss your concerns over the phone. They may call you to provide a response or clarification on the issues you raised in your letter.

It’s important to keep in mind that while written communication can be convenient for both patients and healthcare providers, it may not be suitable for all medical issues. Some concerns may require a face-to-face evaluation, especially if physical examination, diagnostic tests, or immediate treatment is needed.

If you have specific questions or concerns about how your GP prefers to communicate or if you’re unsure about the response you received in a letter, you should reach out to the GP’s office to discuss your preferences and the best way to address your healthcare needs. Effective communication with your healthcare provider is essential for ensuring you receive the care and information you need for your well-being.

It’s important to remember that while you have rights as a patient, you also have responsibilities, such as providing accurate information to your healthcare provider and following their recommendations to the best of your ability.

If you believe your GP is refusing care without a legitimate medical or ethical reason, it’s advisable to seek a second opinion or contact your local healthcare ombudsman or regulatory authority for guidance on how to address the issue. Laws and regulations related to healthcare rights can vary, so consulting local resources is essential to understanding your specific rights and options in your area.

What if your mental health deteriorates because your GP refuses to give you care and address your concerns in writing?

If your mental health deteriorates because your GP refuses to provide you with care or address your concerns, it’s crucial to take immediate action to safeguard your well-being. Here are some steps to consider:

1. Seek Immediate Assistance: If you are in crisis or experiencing severe mental health issues, don’t hesitate to seek immediate help. Contact a crisis helpline, a mental health crisis center, or go to the nearest emergency room. Your safety and well-being should always be the top priority.
2. Speak to a Mental Health Professional: Reach out to a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist, who specializes in mental health care. They can provide you with an evaluation, support, and treatment options.
3. Contact Another GP or Healthcare Provider: If your current GP is not addressing your mental health concerns, consider seeking assistance from another GP or healthcare provider. You have the right to access healthcare, and a different GP may be more receptive to your needs.
4. Document Your Concerns: Keep a record of your interactions with your GP, including dates, details of conversations, and any written communication. This documentation can be useful if you decide to file a complaint or seek legal assistance.
5. File a Complaint: If you believe that your GP’s refusal to provide care is unjustified or has caused harm to your mental health, consider filing a formal complaint with the medical practice, healthcare regulatory authorities, or a patient ombudsman. Be sure to provide all relevant details and evidence.
6. Consult Legal Advice: Depending on the circumstances, you may want to consult with a legal professional who specializes in healthcare law. They can advise you on potential legal actions or remedies available to you.
7. Support Network: Lean on your support network, including friends and family, for emotional support during this challenging time. They can provide comfort and assistance as you navigate the situation.
8. Explore Mental Health Resources: In addition to seeking professional help, explore mental health resources available in your area, such as support groups, community mental health services, and online resources.

Can you sue your GP if your mental health has deteriorated?

Knowing that you have a telephone phobia and have sent them detailed letters and they have not responded?

In many legal systems, medical malpractice cases are typically based on the principle of a breach of the standard of care. To pursue a lawsuit against your GP, you would typically need to demonstrate the following elements:

1. Duty of Care: Establish that your GP owes you a duty of care as their patient. This is usually established when you have an established doctor-patient relationship.
2. Breach of Duty: Show that your GP breached the duty of care by failing to respond to your written communications or adequately address your concerns. In your case, this may involve demonstrating that they did not meet the standard of care expected in your specific circumstances, taking into consideration your phone phobia.
3. Causation: Establish a direct link between your GP’s breach of duty and the deterioration of your mental health. You would need to provide evidence that your mental health deteriorated as a result of their actions or inactions.
4. Damages: Prove that you suffered damages as a result of your deteriorating mental health. This could include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, or other measurable losses.
5. Expert Testimony: In medical malpractice cases, it’s often necessary to obtain expert medical testimony to support your claim. This expert can help establish the standard of care and whether your GP’s actions deviated from it.
6. Statute of Limitations: Be aware of the statute of limitations in your jurisdiction, which is the timeframe within which you must file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can result in your case being dismissed.

It’s important to consult with an experienced medical malpractice solicitor/attorney who can assess the specific details of your case, provide guidance on the merits of your claim, and advise you on the best course of action. Laws regarding medical malpractice can vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another, so it’s crucial to consult with an attorney who is familiar with the laws in your area. Remember that pursuing legal action can be a complex and lengthy process, and success is not guaranteed.

If you believe you have a valid case, consult with an attorney to discuss your options and the best way to proceed.

Further Reading:

https://albanysurgery.nhs.wales/about-us/practice-team/

Google Reviews For: Meddygfa Albany Surgery

219-221  City Road,  Cardiff,  South Glamorgan,  CF243JD United Kingdom

NHS Ombudsman

https://www.gov.wales/nhs-wales-complaints-and-concerns-putting-things-right

Anxiety & Phobia

https://disabledentrepreneur.uk/anxiety-phoning-your-gp/

https://www.mind.org.uk/about-us/our-policy-work/you-and-your-gp/

Conclusion

Your health is of utmost importance, and you should feel comfortable and supported when seeking medical care. While most GPs are dedicated professionals, there may be instances when you encounter stonewalling or resistance to addressing your health concerns. By following the steps outlined above and advocating for your health, you can ensure that you receive the care and attention you deserve. Remember that your well-being should always be the top priority in any medical interaction, and you have the right to seek the best care possible.

It’s important to remember that your mental health is a critical aspect of your overall well-being, and you have the right to receive appropriate care and support.

If you ever feel that your mental health is at risk due to the actions or inactions of your GP, prioritize getting the help you need from mental health professionals and seek alternatives for medical care.

Mental health concerns should always be taken seriously, and timely intervention can make a significant difference in your recovery.

Personal Perspective From The Editor of ‘Disabled Entrepreneur UK’.

The question is how can Meddygfa Albany Surgery be in business if they have a low trust and credibility rating and tell patients if they do not like how they operate to find another doctor? This is absolutely appalling treatment. If their only priority is to get money from the pharmaceutical companies by prescribing medication to fund this business, they should be investigated. There is something seriously wrong when a surgery hires unprofessional people to run the outfit.

The editor of ‘Disabled Entrepreneur UK’ has stated that she uses this surgery to get her medication but they will not respond in writing (despite her writing three in-depth letters). On the other hand, they will send out letters with notifications about updating their records or phone when it suits them to incite you to get flu jabs. If you state you do not want a vaccination they then get shirty because it is in their financial interest each time they vaccinate someone.

To date, the editor has told me she has not had adequate care from the surgery and her mental health has deteriorated as a direct result of the GP’s no action and the recent PIP telephone assessment, which according to her has been written in her online journal and cited in some recent publish articles.

She has chosen to take a step back to try and recover giving the reigns to the senior writer.

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