"My care at GPs and local hospital"

I’m 67 years of age; and have suffered years with medical problems.

I have recently been diagnosed with a Gallbladder problem. I’m in constant pain especially after eating and drinking (water or tea). I have also suffered with stomach problem to which was diagnosed as gastric. I can’t take the strong pain killers that are prescribed to me, because of the gastric. I’ve called 111 several times over the past 3 months and was admitted to hospital twice with strong stomach pain and gastric, but always get sent back home after pain goes.

I’ve been registered with my local GP surgery for about 27 years, and have seen about 5 or 6 different doctors there over that period. I try to see the same 2 GPs, but they never seem to be at work; so would normally have to wait at least 1 month to see any of them. Therefore, I’ll end up seeing a different GP.

Lately, since my gallbladder problem; I found out from one of the GP at the surgery that my medical history is so complex that my records should be kept together by all GPs; but they’re not doing so. The GP protested that it was taking her too long to find past and present reports by other GPs, from hospitals and 111. So normally; I have to be the one to tell and explain about my medical history. What I have also found out; GPs don't follow up or read reports sent from hospitals, etc. , until I inform them at the time. And, they get so impatient trying to find them, then get upset; so normally have to turn to me for info.

When I try to explain any medical problem to them, they sometimes don’t listen when trying to explain what’s going on with me. They always seem to know, even if they haven’t got a clue. Then give me prescription drugs which aren't right for me or the problem. There’s one GP that gets sharp and impatient; it makes me feel nervous, so I don’t get to tell him all my symptoms, etc. Sometimes the receptionist will book me in to see the wrong GP (as a duty doctor), and then the GP will get upset and have a go at me.