to be angry about gp red tape.

[midnightisaplace]

My husband went to see the doctors a couple of weeks ago about rectal bleeding and asociated problems. The doctor did blood tests which were clear but wanted to refer him to hospital for tests. Unfortunately we knew we were moving out of the area a week later so it wasn't possible. Instead GP wrote letter informing whoever his new GP was that he should be refered for tests urgently. We have now moved and on the day we moved we tried to register with the local GP. We explained why we wanted to do this as urgently as possible and showed the receptionist the old GPs letter. However they require two proofs of address before you can register. I have been trying my best to get the proofs they need but a week later and I still don't have them. God knows how long it will take.

I know that there may very well be absolutly nothing wrong with my husband but am still very anxious about the delay. When we are finally registered it will probably take ages to get an appointment and then even longer to get a referral.

As far as I understand it, they are actually acting against the law in refusing to register you without proof of address.

You can register as a temporary resident without showing proof of address. I did this when I staying at a friend's house for a few days and got a bout of cystitis.

Failing that I would go to a & e. Rectal bleeding is not normal and could be a sign of bowel cancer. Don't want to alarm you - it could be a sign of other things too - but I wouldn't delay on this.

I've never had a provide proof of address at a Drs. I would go back and insist they register you, and if they refuse ask about their complaints procedure.

they are right re registering.

you can however see a gp at the practice in the meantime. Make an appt to see the GP urgently- temporary resident if necessary. Explain it to the GP- they will sort the receptionist out.

Have just registered with new GP following moving house-did not need proof of address or anything else for that matter. Plus, just before moved, saw old GP re:breast lump-referred me to local hospital at new address anyway-old GP very lovely obviously, but has meant no delay in treatment.

Seconding that you should be able to register as a temporary resident. I've done this several times in the past, to get prescriptions when staying with someone for instance.

What area are you in? Ring up your PCT (Primary Care Trust) and see what they say.

Have you tried speaking to the practice manager? That is appalling. Otherwise maybe get a letter from your estate agent or solicitor confirming your new address.