I never ring the surgery for an appointment unless really necessary, but a few months ago I noticed a lump on the left of my neck, I got seen straight away but then had to wait for scan appointment with the hospital, once scan was completed a few months went by so I thought nothing to worry about. I then received a call from GP to say I had a tumor on my saliva gland, which really worried me but I was assured I would be ok. After a while I found I had a dry mouth, lack of saliva. I rang to advise GP of this they said they would send urgent referral. I finally got an ENT appointment for 4th July, so waiting..... But in the meantime my swallowing is getting worse, coughing everytime I eat or drink anything. Concerned I rang GP today to be told they have no capacity today ring back tomorrow or ring 111. Cancer is my worry as I have seen my dad recently suffer and pass!! They say when you find a lump report to your GP..... so you can wait for months!!! I was hoping for this referral to be expidited...

I have never been so frustrated or demoralised than I have when calling for an appointment or treatment at Bartlett Group. I go months with illnesses and issues until I simply can't manage any more all in an attempt to avoid having to call them. I always feel that the receptionists first response is that I am not important enough or sick enough. I get promised treatments by the doctors for issues I have suffered with post partum for 9 months and I am now at 11 months and I have no solution. I don't think this is even close to just 'good enough' and even though there are pressures on the NHS, the receptionists and admin staff really need to be taught a bedside manner that doesn't isolate people especially as they are usually dealing with vulnerable individuals who have no choice but to speak to them before they get to a doctor.