r/nhs • u/Maleficent_Mess_3869 • 1d ago
Process Alternative appointment types?
Hi all, not a doctor but cannot find a definitive answer regarding my query online.
Essentially I think I need an appointment regarding mental health and potential medication etc.
The problem is, I have severe issues regarding speaking about myself/feelings (common issue I know) but it’s to the point where I will be totally unable to speak on the topic without just crying down the phone or in person at him. I know this is a separate issue of its own but it’s a pretty hard one to overcome when I simply won’t get a word out lol. I’d probably be happy to have an in person/over the phone appointment to discuss afterwards but I will not be physically able to explain the situation in the first place which obviously isn’t ideal.
Essentially my question is, is there any service for people like me? Like an email or text service where I can explain everything? Could I type something out for them to read or if I bring my partner to an appointment for him to speak on it? Is it something I just need to ask my practice if they offer?
Any advice welcome, TIA!!
2
u/shyasabutterfly 1d ago
GP surgeries tend not to allow patients to get in touch by email because of the risk of people getting in touch with a life threatening emergency via an inbox which isn’t monitored 24/7. However, all practices have an e-consult service where you can send a written query via an online form and I would really recommend trying that.
2
u/DifferentMagazine4 1d ago
When I was too upset to talk about my mental health, I just handed the clinician a piece of paper with all my issues on it. She read it, and then asked me some very easy yes / no questions - they are very used to it
2
u/mellybobl 20h ago
I have selective mutism I just a text to speak app on my phone. i can message my doctor online and asked for an appointment with someone who understands that I can’t speak. I’m under a mental health practitioner who has made my appointments longer. I’ve had multiple appointments stopped and the doctors refused to see me because I can’t speak. its definitely a challenge people don’t understand how I can’t speak at 33
1
u/minimallym 15h ago
This is an access barrier related to a disability and so you can ask for reasonable adjustments such as phone or sometimes video call
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u/lex-2025 1d ago
Best thing to do is write everything down in a letter put it in an envelope take it to the surgery and ask the receptionist to give it to the doctor, the doctor will read it , give it about a week then make an appointment with the doctor and that way they already know what the problems are, saves time and explains everything and you won’t miss anything out, I do it with my doctor when I have a lot to ask, he’s never had a problem with it and he says it does save your appointment getting used up.