Survey reveals 40% of Britons feel rushed at GP appointments

A recent Ipsos poll revealed that 40% of Britons feel rushed during their GP appointments, often leaving without discussing all their health concerns. The survey indicated that while 51% of respondents felt they could address most of their worries, a significant portion could only discuss some or none at all. This situation has raised concerns, particularly among older patients, who perceive that GPs may prioritize efficiency over thoroughness in consultations. The study highlighted a strong desire among patients for longer consultations, with 72% preferring appointments of at least 15 minutes, and one in five advocating for 20 minutes. This sentiment was echoed by Prof Kamila Hawthorne, chair of the Royal College of GPs, who acknowledged the frustrations faced by both patients and doctors due to the current short appointment times. Many GPs also feel they lack sufficient time to adequately assess and treat their patients, especially those with complex health needs. Despite the findings of the Ipsos poll, a separate annual GP patient survey indicated that 90% of patients felt their needs were met during their last appointment. However, NHS England recognized the need for improvement in patient satisfaction and access to primary care services. The challenges in accessing GP appointments were further underscored by the fact that many patients must navigate various hurdles, such as discussing concerns with receptionists or filling out online forms before securing an appointment. Overall, the survey results reflect a growing concern about the adequacy of GP consultations in the UK, highlighting the need for systemic changes to ensure that patients can fully address their health issues during appointments.