Should I make a complaint about this doctor?

[sizeofalentil]

I don't really want to make a fuss and am unsure if I am just upset about the situation rather than the doctor and don't want to take it out on her unjustly.

I went to the doctor today because I started to MC last week at 5 wks. It is the second MC I have had and as I am in my 30s I wanted this on my record and to see if the doctor was concerned enough to send me for tests yet (although I know it isn't standard to do this until MC3).

The doctor either wasn't listening, didn't care or there was a language barrier (I don't want to presume but it's possible) that prevented her from understanding what I was saying. She didn't take notes, put anything on my records and I felt like I had to force the information on her (when my last period was, when I took a pg test etc.).

She didn't ask me a single question about the mc - when I started bleeding, how much bleeding there was or any questions about my general health or lifestyle choices. She didn't examine me or take my blood pressure or anything.

The only question she asked me was if I was married and when did I get married.

I tried to tell her that I took a two pg tests after two days of bleeding and they were both negative, but she didn't react. Then sent me to give a urine sample to do a pregnancy test (results back in three days) and gave me a prescription for folic acid - which I already take, something she'd known if she'd asked or listened.

I'm pretty sure she put on my notes that I was there for an early pregnancy test. As that's what she wrote on the form.

When I tried questioning her she said there was nothing she could do as she didn't have the placenta to examine.

Last time I MC'd I went to a&e to get a referral to an Early Pregnancy unit but it took 7 hours to do so this time I wanted to go via my GP.

Is this normal? I now have to phone up in 3 days time to get the results of a pregnancy test which I know will be negative. Then am I meant to book in again, or… Just forget about it? Is this worth making a complaint about?

I really, really hope 2Rebecca comes back to this thread to apologise. What a horrible post

OP, I'm so sorry for your MC
I would definitely book another appointment for as soon as possible to see a different doctor

Sorry OP, miscarriages even early ones are really sad. I would ask to see someone else, either other GP or go to EPU, and write to GP practice separately when the dust has settled to complain.

I'm sorry for your loss OP [flowers}

I would change my doctor to another in the centre if possible.

Sorry for your loss OP.
I had an early mc too years ago and I know how horrible it can be.
Nothing to add except and please do report this to the practice manager, it was an unacceptable and unsatisfactory consultation, you weren't reassured or had your questions answered, so it needs to be reported.

I think you would be justified in making a fuss actually.

Hope you are ok OP and

For your GP [steaming pile of poo emoticon]

On the not taking notes issue - I always watch 'GPs behind closed doors' and it irks me a lot when they are banging away on their keyboards and looking at their screens whilst their patients are speaking.

I would hate this.

Thank you everyone for your kind comments and replies.

Seriously, if I didn't have you lot and this site I really don't know what I would have done after this.

Just one more quick question - do I need any sort of check-up? As my doctor didn't offer me one, and I was only 5wks pg and it probably didn't implant, I assume not.

Do I just assume everything is ok and just get on with things?

Hi size, obviously I didn't examine you or take a full medical history, so this can only be general guidance. Please ignore and see a doctor if you start to feel unwell or get further bleeding or pain.

With those caveats:

In most cases, there is no need for any sort of gynae examination with an early mc like this. As you were feeling faint & unwell during the consultation, your GP should have checked your BP, pulse etc. If you are OK now and bleeding is stopping/stopped, you shouldn't need any further tests or examination.

But you do agree shineynewusername that a little empathy and kindness wouldn't have hone amiss?

Yes, of course - I already said so upthread. I was answering the question the OP just asked, so not sure why you feel the need to demand that I say more?

I am not the OP's GP - I'm not answerable for her actions. No wonder HCPs are reluctant to out themselves on MN

Hi op just another one saying that the doctors attitude sounds awful. If you don't feel up to it right now write a letter when you feel able but I would try and get a second opinion so that you definitely have it on your records.
Look after yourself

Perhaps 2rebecca is the Doctor

I'm sorry for your loss.

I've reviewed the thread and I can't see where you expressed any empathy except for saying to contact the practice manager. I can't find a sorry in your post. My apologies if you find that insensitive.

Ah, you have got me, Ripening. You are just too clever for me. Clearly I am a total bitch for actually answering the OP's question, Just one more quick question - do I need any sort of check-up? and giving her the info she wanted.

I see now how wrong I was. Please take me away, Empathy Police.

Op i'm really sorry that sounds shitty
There really is nothing more frustrsting in this kind of scenario than feeling fobbed off.
Shiney gave decent advice no idea why you have to be such a dick ripening

That doesn't sound ok at all. No idea why she would ask about your marriage.

I'm so sorry for your loss but I would definitely make a complaint. When I think back to my docs app I remember the doctor reaching over to hold my hand and saying how sorry he was that I was going through this. I was so frightened of going but his gesture meant the world to me. He also got me an app at the epu for a scan and blood test. I have no idea if that's the normal procedure as it had never happened before.