• Replies 13 replies
  • Subscribers 80 subscribers
  • Views 151 views
  • Users 0 members are here
Options
Related
Hints and tips
  • To quote someone's message, first select/highlight the relevant text, and then use the Quote button that appears
  • To "mention" someone, type @ followed by the start of the forum name, and choose from the list; that person will get a notification of being mentioned

Difficulty Accessing Reasonable Adjustments at My GP

soboiceland

Hello,

I’m an autistic patient advocating for myself at my GP surgery and wanted to share some difficulties I’ve had with reasonable adjustments.

Some of my requests, like clear communication, interim support, or understanding what adjustments can be reliably provided, haven’t always been addressed. This has caused stress, confusion, and uncertainty.

For example:

  • I asked them not to use vague language. They said “we will try,” but trying isn’t enough when unclear communication harms me.

  • I asked them to clarify their written communication style. They asked why I needed clarification.

  • I requested interim measures to prevent risks. They asked why I needed them despite me explaining my concerns. I understand that full profiles or care plans may be best handled by specialists, but interim adjustments could help me access care safely.

  • When I struggled on the phone with a receptionist, I was told to terminate the call, which feels like a barrier.

If you’ve experienced similar barriers at your GP, how did you manage them or get support? If not, what advice would you give me?




Parents

  • Is this an issue with the GP's themselves or the reception staff and practice manager? I often find there's quite a difference between what the position of the GP's is and that of the admin staff. 

  • in reply to TheCatWoman

    This is an issue with the whole practice. I am not happy with the way the practice manager and GP have responded to my requests and concerns. This is why I decided to meet with the doctor face-to-face. I wanted to see whether the written communication was coming solely from the practice manager, but I learned that the doctor shares the same attitude.

    I also find that the receptionists do not have the authority to implement reasonable adjustments. They forward my emails to the practice management and doctor to handle. I get the impression the practice manager has power over the GP's.

    What differences have you observed between the position of the GPs and that of the administrative staff?

Reply
  • in reply to TheCatWoman

    This is an issue with the whole practice. I am not happy with the way the practice manager and GP have responded to my requests and concerns. This is why I decided to meet with the doctor face-to-face. I wanted to see whether the written communication was coming solely from the practice manager, but I learned that the doctor shares the same attitude.

    I also find that the receptionists do not have the authority to implement reasonable adjustments. They forward my emails to the practice management and doctor to handle. I get the impression the practice manager has power over the GP's.

    What differences have you observed between the position of the GPs and that of the administrative staff?

Children