Why tell the receptionist why I'm seeing the doctor

[Eldermileniummam]

Why do they ask this? Is it so they can give you an appointment with the appropriate person or some other reason?

I usually don't mind but sometimes I'm embarrassed to say and never sure how specific I need to be.

I am not going to blame anyone, if the appointments are all taken for the day etc that is that, an appt cant be given that isn't there.
There are usually non urgent care centres one can go to if its felt that you really cant wait for the next appt, 111 is another option for advice.
The bottom line is the scarcity of GP's and an increasing population.