GP: seeing your GP

AKA:

GPs (general practitioners) are sometimes also called: doctor, dr, family doctor, local doctor, primary care doctors.

When should I see my GP?

If you feel ill and don't know what's wrong. If you want advice about your health. If you want contraception. Or to make sure you've not got an STI. You can also see your GP if you're feeling depressed, stressed or anxious. If you want help but don't know whom to ask. Basically - You can see your GP When You Want To.

Do I have to tell my parents?

No - and everything you say is private between you and your doctor. Your doctor will only tell someone else if he or she thinks you're in danger.

How do I make an appointment?

• Phone or call in to the surgery. Tell them your name, and that you'd like to make an appointment to see a doctor. You won't have to say what it's about.
• You can find details of your nearest GP surgery on NHS.uk.
• If you'd rather see a male or female doctor, or go after school hours, say so. Don't be surprised if your appointment's not for a couple of weeks. Most doctor's appointments last about ten minutes. And it's free.
• If you feel terrible, ask about 'emergency surgery' times. This is when you turn up and wait until the doctor's free.
• If you feel too ill to get to the surgery, ask if the doctor can see you at home.

What if I'm too embarrassed to say what's wrong?

Don't be. GPs have seen and heard everything and are never embarrassed. If you feel really shy, tell your GP and they'll try to make you feel at ease. Or take a mate along for moral support.

It might also help to write a list of questions to ask your doctor so you won't forget anything and all your questions can be answered.

Further help and advice

bbc.co.uk/health/fitness
patient.co.uk
nhsdirect.nhs.uk Get your health questions answered online or call NHS direct on 0845 46 47.)

Written by Dr Melissa Sayer

Last updated 17th June 2007

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