'I'm a GP for the NHS – there's a reason waiting rooms are so empty nowadays'
An NHS GP has revealed why waiting rooms feel a lot emptier following the coronavirus pandemic.
Doctor Shireen took to TikTok to clear things up after getting a common question from her 23,000 followers. She said: "A lot of people ask me now why waiting rooms are so empty now post Covid. Is it because the GPs aren't seeing patients?"
The British medical professional wanted to clear up that it's not because her job is less busy. It's more likely to be because procedures have changed in recent years. She continued: "Since Covid, the model and structure that we work under has really changed. Before, people would be crowded into waiting rooms."
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Not only did the pandemic discourage large groups of sick people to mingle in public, it also pushed more people to have virtual consultations instead of risking trips outside.
Dr Shireen explained: "[Before], every single patient was offered a face-to-face appointment." So if five doctors were working, they could have around 20 patients between them waiting outside to be seen.
The TikToker continued: "Obviously during Covid, everyone reduced face to face contact – which was the right thing to do. Then in GP land, like many other industries, we realised that not all patients need to be seen face to face. There are so many things that can be efficiently and effectively dealt with over the phone."
Dr Shireen estimates that around 30% of cases can be dealt with in this way. While some prefer face to face contact, many enjoy being able to speak to a doctor without any of the hassle that comes with leaving the house.
The GP added: "Patients are actually happy because they don't need to come and wait in the waiting room for ages and they don't need to take time off work."
And if patients would rather be seen in person, Dr Shireen reassured that this is something she "always" offers as an option. This is especially important if a member of public has something sensitive they want to disclose – as it can be easier to do this after they've developed trust and rapport with their doctor.
Following Dr Shireen's video, many shared their thoughts in the comments section. Many agreed they'd noticed that waiting rooms seem a lot emptier in recent years.
One wrote: "I was going to my GP twice a week recently and it was always empty. Some of those visits no patients came out the room I was called into." And another said: "Much better – hated sitting in a full surgery with germy people and I just wanted a convo about a ongoing thing. Good work."
However, others complained that it seems to be getting increasingly difficult to get an appointment. A TikTok user said: "Patients are not happy."
Another wrote: "No amount of words will justify the utter shambles that is currently offered to the public today." And a third added: "I'm sorry but I disagree with you doctor. There is no chance of getting an appointment."