"I was pleasantly surprised to be informed of the relevant appointment times"

I had been experiencing considerable lower back pain for a period of 8 weeks. Concerned that there was little improvement after resting and taking over the counter pain killers, I made an appointment with my GP.

I was seen on the day I rang for an appointment. My GP treated me with great care and gave me a thorough examination. He recommended a cause of action – blood test, urine tests, x-rays and physio.

He prescribed medication to alleviate the symptoms – I was pleasantly surprised to be informed of the relevant appointment times – blood and urine tests within 2 days; x-ray within a week and a follow up GP appointment 9 days later, with a physio appointment the same day.

At the follow up GP appointment I was again pleasantly surprised to hear that all the results were available already.

Thankfully, the GP was able to reassure me that nothing ‘serious’ is wrong (arthritis) and he gave me advice and confidence on ways in which to manage the condition in future.

The physio was similarly reassuring, although I do not need regular NHS treatment. When I do, it always excelled and I get very annoyed when ‘people’ continue to complain about the NHS service.