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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

If I arrive late to an appointment, will I still be seen?

You will be seen if you arrive within the 10 minutes of your allocated time. If you arrive 5 minutes late, you will only have 5 minutes to discuss your issue, which may be insufficient. We therefore ask that you attend your appointment promptly. Arriving at least a couple of minutes beforehand is always a good plan.

Why do you not issue a fit note free within the first 7 days?

The NHS does not provide fit notes (sick notes) within the first 7 days, as you are able to self certify during this time for your reason of absence. This means they can tell their employer that they are not well enough to work and do not need to provide any further medical evidence.

Can I speak to a GP about someone else’s health?

If you have your friend/relative’s consent, you can speak about their health with a GP. However, if you do not have their consent, you can raise concerns about a friend/relative’s health with their GP, but their GP will not be able to discuss any details due to patient confidentiality. Also, please be aware that patients aged 16 and over, have the right to privacy regarding their medical record and unless we receive signed consent by the patient to allow someone else to view and discuss their record, we cannot share any information with you.

What is an online consultation?

Online consultations allow people to contact their GP Practice without waiting on the phone or taking time to come into the Practice.
Online consultations enable patients to use a secure online system to ask questions, report symptoms and upload photos. The Practice then looks at the request and responds within a stated timeframe, signposting the patient to the right person, service or support.

How can my condition be appropriately diagnosed via telephone or video?

Many common conditions can be diagnosed using mobile devices, telephone or video thanks to the experience of your GPs and their ability to recognise the signs and symptoms of conditions from the information you provide. However, if they judge that it is safer and more appropriate to organise a face-to-face appointment for you, then this will be arranged.

What if I can’t or don’t want to use video technology for an appointment?

If for some reason, you cannot have an appointment via video technology, then your GP will arrange an alternative option – either a phone call or a face-to-face appointment for you.

Where can I find information regarding my NHS number?

Everyone registered with the NHS in England and Wales has their own NHS number. This is not your national insurance number. Further information can be found on the NHS website.