advice regarding fibro,and other illnesses and unsupportive gp.

[alexandra_cmpbll]

Hi, looking for some advice regarding the following; I suffer from asthma with an element of copd, hypothyroidism, anxiety and depression, ibs, arthritis, panic attacks, reflux/ulcer, which I am waiting for hosp appointment.I also use hearing aid for hearing loss and the specialist does not know how quickly or if my hearing will deteriorate n further. I was in the support group of esa, up till march this year, when I was put in wrag, I have appealed this decision. My gp would not write any letter of support except to fill in medical form atos sends to them. I handed in a form to the gp receptionist in an envelope, with the name of the gp I attend. It was in order for me to claim a very small pension, which I paid into in my last employment. When I went to collect it there was a letter in the envelope, along with form, unsigned, which said Dr G feels he is unable to complete this form. The form asks him to confirm that you will be incapable of working, possibly till retirement age. He does not feel that he can support this statement. I am really very angry, considering I am only 46 and the thought of being unable to work again is very upsetting. I didn't ask for the health problems I have, perhaps its down to the stress of being in an abusive marriage for years and being beaten and having a knife held to my throat or maybe the stress of divorce and having to move home several times in the past 8 years with my two sons! The council have no suitable housing available and Iv had to find alternate private lets! Whatever the reason, i have worked since i was 17, always in the caring profession, and have qualifications in social care. I loved my job, i hate not working. I feel i am being punished for being ill! If my gp wont support me, who will??? I feel so isolated since i picked that letter up and wonder how I go about finding a gp who will be sympathetic to my illnesses. There are many gps in my current medical practice, but I feel there is no point in going to anyone else in that practice as they will struggle to give a different opinion to one of their colleagues. Please, any advice appreciated. xx

[ladymoth]

Hi Alexandra,

I'm sorry you are having problems with your GP. It might be better if you find another practice.

nhs.uk/Service-Search/GP/Lo...

If you click on the link, you will find a site where you can locate all the GP practices in your area. Most practice websites will give details of the partners particular interests and expertise.

It is perfectly in order to phone, or to write to the practice manager to ask for further information.

When you find a GP who you think is suitable, arrange an appointment, and take a written list of your problems and your medications with you. If possible, take someone with you for moral support.

I do hope that you manage to resolve your problems soon - it is very distressing if you don't have a trusting relationship with your GP, so hopefully you will be able to find one who can give you appropriate help.

Best Wishes

Moffy x

[alexandra_cmpbll in reply to ladymoth]

Thank you for taking the time to read and reply moffy, I realise its a bit long winded, but in order for people to understand the whole situation I am in, I feel I need to put all the facts. I followed your advice, as I am in Scotland was directed to another site and have emailed asking for advice, thanks again, you have made me feel less isolated xxx

[grandmakim]

dont despair Alexandra. My GP was c**p, I went to a different GP in the same practice and he is amazing, he listens, empathises and is very helpful and supportive, just cos they are in the same practice doesnt mean they ahve the same views and ideas. Good luck xx

[soo19]

don't worry I went thru a similar situation recently when my gp retired and I went into meltdown . Sometimes because one gp doesn't seem to care we assume another won't or visa versa you will be surprised

have a word with the practice manager they should know who are fibro friendly. gentle hugs x

[Malwimmy27]

I would certainly consider changes GP practice and see if you can find a GP with some compassion and sense! God luck with it, don't give in. Please let us know how you get on.

Becky. X

[alexandra_cmpbll]

Thanks for the advice guys, really appreciate it xxx will keep you updated.