In my area now when you are referred to a specialist the first appointment they don't see you physically. They see your referral letter and make a decision whether to see you or refer you back for GP led care.
Now I can see why this would save money but surely this isn't safe?
GPs aren't specialists in most cases and if your GP is a bit poor you seem stuffed.
My Mum had one who told her she couldn't have anything wrong with her heart as her blood pressure was low but nothing else was showing. My Mum (a nurse) insisted on the referral and had to have urgent heart surgery as she has a terminal heart condition.
My assessment is reliant on a doctor that doesn't physically examine (never been examined in years but no other local doctor to change to) and a five year old previous assessment with a different hospital .
Aibu to be a bit worried.