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  • 020 7928 6216
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Blackfriars Medical Practice, 45 Colombo Street, London, SE1 8EE
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Getting the Most out of Your Consultation

On average, patients have just ten minutes with their doctor. The BMA (British Medical Association) offers this advice to help you use this time effectively.

Be Prepared

Make a list of any questions or problems you wish to discuss beforehand

Take a pen and paper as you may want to note down important points

Wear loose clothing if it's likely you will need to be examined

Be prepared to tell your doctor of any non-prescription medicines or supplements you are taking

You can bring someone with you for support

During the Appointment

Don't be afraid to ask questions

If you don't understand, ask your doctor to repeat it or write it down

If you are prescribed a drug, make sure you know why it has been given to you and how long to take it for. Remember, pharmacists are experts in medication and are a very useful source of advice

Be direct. If you have a problem that you find embarassing or difficult to talk about, don't leave it to the end of the appointment before mentioning it. Your problem is likely to be a common one for your doctor, who is there to help you

One problem at a time

If you have several porblems it is more effective in the long run to concentrate on just one problem during the consultation than to rush through a list of problems. Be prepared to make another appointment so that each problem can be given the time it needs to be sorted out

Be on Time

Be on time for your appointment or inform the surgery as soon as possible if you wish to cancel your appointment

Separate Appointments

Make a separate appointment for each member of the family

Under 14 Year Olds

Accompany under 14 year olds. If however, a young person strongly wishes to be treated without their parent's involvement, then their confidentiality will be respected

Further Information

How to get the most out of your GP appointment on the Patient Access website

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Blackfriars Medical Practice

45 Colombo Street, London, SE1 8EE

  • 020 7928 6216
© Neighbourhood Direct Ltd  2025
Website supplied by Oldroyd Publishing Group

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