Following an out of hours consultation (not with my own GP Practice) regarding potential prostate issues, the GP requested I take a blood test for which he issued the requisite forms, and advised that following the blood test I should arrange for a digital rectal examination with my GP. Upon telephoning my GP Practice today I was informed that because all of the GP’s were female they did not carry out DRE’s of prostates and I should make an appointment with the GP who advised the examination which they did for me. I have to say that I find it incredulous that my GP practice will not carry out DRE’s on prostates because they only have female GP’s, surely they are in this instance GP’s first and female second, genders should not come into the equation.
Digital Rectal Examination of the Pro... - Lung Conditions C...
Digital Rectal Examination of the Prostate
I’m incredulous too! Do they refuse to examine for haemorrhoids too? What about testicular lumps & bumps? So basically the practice isn’t providing the full range of health services… or is it only men they won’t examine? You need to raise this with someone, it can’t be correct
I only ever see female GPs and have never had a problem with prostate, penis, or testicles examination. You should repot them to nhs england
Absolutely ridiculous! I agree with others, they need reporting. Xxxx
Shocking! Agree with all the comments above
I have had Digital Rectal Examination of the Prostate three times, twice in hospital and once with my My male GP some years some years ago. To be honest I have frequent intimate ops and female registrars often do the deed. Mind you I have cancer and don;t care who does it. I think all the GPs refusing is a bit much, I would find a new GP - I think your GPs are poor, you can report themif you wish.
That’s absolutely ridiculous. Two years ago I developed Cauda Equina and one way of initially testing for this, is by having a finger pushed up the bum!! As a female I simply accepted that mostly male doctors did this examination. It didn’t matter who was doing the tests I simply viewed the person as a doctor first and foremost!
I agree, a choice might be offered as there is (or used to be) a choice for females to have female gynecologists
Hi there , Not surprised at all about this protocol. The opposite applies as well with only female HCP’s carrying out intimate examinations on female patients.
Given the opportunity for abuse issues to potentially arise and patient choice as well then I think it is good practice.
I am sure they will sort someone out for you to carry out the examination.
Go well.
Pauline
That's insane, as a woman I have had many intimate examinations by male doctors!
Any gender GP should see any gender patient, they should just offer the opportunity to book with same gender if patient not happy or offer chaperone. Shocking! 🦊x
That’s your opinion. Personally I don’t want a female GP’s finger up my bum unless I’m sedated. I would find it just too embarrassing and personal. The lady GP probably feels the same (as in your surgery practice).
If you're in pain you wouldn't care who was treating you.
Your point is well-made but prostate changes are generally without symptoms, or so my doctor told me. It’s a quick, easy and cheap alternative to PSA tests; an indicator as to whether it’s necessary to delve further.
But I’m a bit of a cultural prisoner in this case, whether it’s sensible or not.
I understand. We all have our boundaries. 🙂
I wonder if the rules are changjng. I spoke with my surgery last week about spotting and reception asked would it be OK if I spoke with a male doctor. I have never been asked this before and have had examinations by male doctors in the past x
That's daft! If a patient prefers a particular gender that's different but your surgery is only prepared to give care to half their patients! Us ladies have male medics performing personal procedures all the time! A chaperone is usually provided if needed. I couldn't give a damn what gender the medic is! That really is sexist and I would feel a strongly worded email coming on.
I agree with everyone.
Oo must admit haven't heard that before it's ridiculous a docter is a docter patient is a patient
Breathing during Stethoscope examination
Side effects of steroids
Trainee GP's and seasoned lung diseased 
I have severe copd 44% predicted. Arthrities of the hip and crps.
