My ds(3) had an accident yesterday while playing with his older sister (nearly 18) and started screaming in pain. I knew he had hurt his arm but just thought something along the lines of 'dead arm'. However he became really distressed so I got him in the car (much screaming getting seatbelt over him and car seat) and drove to the local doctor's surgery (much more screaming every time I went over a bump) where we are registered.
I got him out of the car at the surgery and inside, only for the receptionist to say she didn't think the doctor would be available to see him (what!) and that I should drive him to hospital. I then asked if a nurse could have a quick look and maybe strap it up or something for the journey because he was in pain. She phoned through to speak to the doctor and was told he would not be seen and to send us to the hospital - approximately 15 miles away. The other patients in the health centre were disgusted at a doctor refusing to see a 3 yo in obvious pain.
We ended up having a very uncomfortable journey for my ds, couldn't find anywhere to park when we got there (city centre), and I had to carry him quite a distance to the a&e department. He had dislocated his elbow and the doctor popped it back in. They were really good at the hospital and we didn't have to wait too long before he was seen luckily.
Anyway, all's well that ends well and everything, but I am really upset at the way we were treated (or rather not treated) at the local surgery and I am considering making a complaint and changing surgeries. I think it was bad practice not to even take a look at an injured child. I can't imagine the hospital being too chuffed either if we had turned up there for nothing more serious that a simple sore arm.
What do others think? Maybe I am being unreasonable about it, but it was quite an upsetting experience for us. I'd just like some feedback before I take things further.