GP waiting lists and poor care stopping Brits from seeking medical help, new research reveals

GP Waiting Lists and Poor Care Hindering Brits from Seeking Medical Help, Latest Study Finds

A recent study conducted by law firm Simpson Millar has shed light on the factors preventing many Brits from seeking medical assistance. According to the research, more than a third of UK residents have refrained from contacting their General Practitioner (GP) due to prolonged waiting times, miscommunication, privacy concerns, and substandard care.

The survey of 1,000 individuals revealed that excessive waiting times have discouraged 35% of Brits from reaching out to their GP. This issue is exacerbated by the growing waiting lists in the UK, with one in 20 patients facing delays of over four weeks for a GP appointment. Difficulty in contacting GPs is another significant barrier, with 33% of respondents admitting to abandoning their efforts after struggling to connect with their local surgery.

Furthermore, a notable deterrent for individuals seeking healthcare is the perceived hostility from medical staff, as 14% of respondents expressed concerns about not being taken seriously. The study also highlighted gender discrepancies, with women (19%) more likely than men (9%) to fear judgment from doctors, leading them to avoid seeking medical help.

The reluctance to share private information over the phone emerged as another common reason for avoiding GP consultations, with 10% of patients apprehensive about disclosing sensitive details to call handlers before speaking with their GP. Concerns around misdiagnosis, inaccurate medical records, and receiving incorrect prescriptions were also cited as barriers to seeking medical assistance.

Reflecting on the findings, Kelly Withers, Senior Associate Solicitor at Simpson Millar, emphasised the potential repercussions of GP negligence, particularly in cases where critical conditions may go undetected. With a surge in complaints related to healthcare professionals not taking health concerns seriously, the study underscores the need for improvements in GP services to instil confidence and trust among patients.

In conclusion, the research underscores the importance of addressing the underlying issues surrounding GP consultations, including lengthy waiting times, communication barriers, and concerns about the quality of care provided. By identifying and rectifying these challenges, healthcare providers can help ensure that individuals feel supported, heard, and empowered to seek medical help when needed.

Insights and Summary:
The study’s findings highlight the multifaceted reasons why many individuals in the UK are hesitant to contact their GP, ranging from practical barriers such as long waiting times to emotional concerns like fear of judgment. Addressing these issues is crucial to ensuring that everyone has equitable access to timely and quality medical care. By fostering a more patient-centred approach within the healthcare system, providers can build trust and encourage individuals to prioritise their health without reservations.