How do you reply to this question?

[ormirian]

I rang the GP yesterday to make an appointment. Was asked if it was an emergency - as i was not in danger on imminent death I said no. So the receptionist arranged for a doctor to ring me back. Doctor rang me back, asked a few question and then said;

"What exactly were you hoping to get from us today?"

Not sarcastically, not rudely, not whilst (I don't think) rolling her eyes, jsut in a matter of fact sort of way. I didn't know what to say apart from 'I am in a lot of pain. I would like some help finding out what is wrong and stopping it'.

What answer was she expecting? Am I unreasonable to be a bit confused by this question? Is it a new sort of NHS corporate speak ? Or was she genuinely unsure of her purpose?

lainiekazan

sorry if I wasn't clear, I certainly wouldn't request an unnecessary scan because the patient was pushing for it, but if I know that, for example the patient is keen for a brain scan for their migraine because their uncle has just died of a brain tumour, then I would take the time to explain why their symptoms weren't suggestive of a tumour and why a scan isn't needed. if I don't know that background then we cant have that discussion

It sounds like GPs can't win unless they're mind readers! It's about a 50/50 split who likes these types of question and who would be offended/put the phone down/walk out.

But I don't know what is wrong with my knee. I've googled and I suppose I could take a stab at it but what would be the point? So the only answer I could give is 'knee hurts!!! Make it stop!!!'

But that's it, surely, if you don't know you can just say you're in pain and want it to stop, but if you have a fair idea or even just a random ridiculous fear you can ask.

And let's face it, how often do you go to the GP with absolutely no idea about what's wrong, even if that idea is mistaken? Most of us decide we have cancer/ a virus/ scabies and if that is wrong, at least we can be told!

I was very relieved to find out that my "melanoma" was eczema