"Length of GP appointments and test results"

This story has been posted by Healthwatch Tameside on behalf of a member of the public who asked not to have their name published. They said…

This lady has various medical problems, including anxiety and depression. She recently started taking Citalopram (anti-depressant) after being very reluctant to take it.

Current problem - she has a nail infection on right hand which she thinks is spreading to left hand. Has tried topical treatment for fungal infection with no improvement. Has produced nail clippings for sending off to lab for testing, but believes her results have been delayed or lost. She has had cancer in the past and is very concerned about her health. She usually writes a list of things she needs to discuss with the GP when she has an appointment but doesn't feel she is given enough time to fully explore the issues. She suggests:

1) longer appointments (20 minutes would be her preference)

2) A more efficient system for tests and informing patients of results.

She intends to make an appointment to speak to the practice manager about her concerns.