Don’t be a doctor dodger. Make the most of time with your GP

When did you last call your doctor? Was it less than a month ago, six months, over a year or 1976? It may sound far-fetched but our new poll uncovers half of us self-diagnose on Google instead.

The new study from Saga Health Insurance reveals that three in four of us put off going to the doctors in the UK and 50% self-diagnose online rather than seeking professional medical advice.

Registered GP Dr Hana Patel points out the need to check any health information you find online.
“Patients self-diagnosing is becoming more common with health information online on social media and through AI. However, online information should always be cross-checked with a medical professional, doctor or pharmacist, to ensure that it is correct.”

Our report found that 49% of people who avoid the doctor’s surgery thought symptoms would improve on their own, while 47% didn’t think their problem was serious enough. However, delaying a GP visit could have serious long-term health consequences. As a result of doctor dodging, 34% found their symptoms worsened while 10% became hospitalised.

Dr Patel shares some top tips on how to get the most from your appointment.

Before the appointment

Prepare your questions and concerns

“GP appointments are short – around 10 minutes. Preparing your points in advance can be a real time saver and help you prioritise what you most need to ask or discuss.”

Bring the necessary information

“Bring details of any medications you are currently taking, including any over-the-counter medicines or anything prescribed by a pharmacist. This can save time without having to explain everything but also means you don’t have to memorise all of this information.”

During the appointment

Take notes and ask questions

“Be honest about your symptoms no matter how minor or embarrassing. I always try and put patients at ease if I sense that they are embarrassed about what they are going to tell me.”

“If you don’t understand what the doctor is saying or have any doubts, ask for clarification. Make notes on your phone or in a notebook to help you revisit your discussion at future appointments. Or if possible, take someone else with you.”

Confirm what’s next

“Make sure you’re fully confident in what steps to take next – whether that’s treatments and medications, lifestyle changes, or coming back for a test. You may want your GP to write down key things discussed or plans to take forward.

After the appointment

Follow any recommendations

Make a list of any follow up appointments, even if they are routine or a long way off. Time can pass quickly and there are some regular screenings that mustn’t be missed, particularly for cancer.

“Action the points made by the doctor promptly such as filling out prescriptions or taking medications. If it’s lifestyle changes, try to implement these as soon as possible and lean on family and friends to support you.”

Monitor your progress

“Keep track of your progress, good and bad, and keep a close eye on your health. If your symptoms get worse or other complications arise, get back to your GP.”

Fear is a factor for doctor dodgers

Health anxiety is on the rise with many people more health-conscious than ever before. One in three respondents (30%) said they were anxious or nervous about potential diagnosis.

Registered Counseller Georgina Sturmer explains: “There are a whole host of reasons why we might avoid going to the doctors, often referred to as ‘white coat syndrome'. Fear about what the doctor is going to say or do, and the potential diagnosis is one of the biggest culprits.

Georgina says we need to look after our mental health too: “There’s now a greater understanding of the link between mental and physical health and we’re beginning to talk more openly about our emotional wellbeing. If we can look after our mental health, it will help us to be more confident and resilient in our everyday lives and support our physical health.”

“Historically, mental health has carried a stigma but times are changing. It’s becoming easier for us to ask for support and we have a greater understanding of what’s available, including helplines, support groups, wellbeing programmes and counselling, and how to access them.”