I now see GPs are launching a work-to-rule, with some limiting the number of patients they see per day to 25.

They are also requesting an increase of £35 per patient on their books, which would either enhance the chance of getting to see a GP better or boost their personal bank balance, given the average salary for GPs is over £100,000 a year.

I know many old-school doctors work hard and know their patients very well after years of building up trust.

Why not go back to the old-style appointments of open surgery?

Because, let’s face it, it is nice and reassuring to see a doctor when one’s ill, is it not?

It seemed to work well.

OK, you might have to wait an hour or so, but you were seen—mornings 8am to 11am, then 5pm to 7pm, and in between, old-fashioned house calls.

Remember them? And leave certain days, possibly weekends, for fixed appointments only.

Two cases: a friend of mine had a phone call assessment on his COPD—five fixed questions.

Surely this should require a face-to-face?

Another friend in her late 70s had to wait three weeks to secure an appointment.

This being 21 days, which, although late, she’s grateful to finally get to see a doctor, although she’s been told the appointment is for one medical condition only.

Plus, wouldn’t it be a good idea to practise seeing the same GP for ongoing treatment rather than numerous other GPs with possibly different takes on the problem?

The last time I saw my GP years ago, he said, “I’ve not seen you for a long time.”

I said, “Well, I’ve not been ill.”

It’s a pity it comes down to money, which for some things is lacking. Mind you, if you get past the receptionist, you may end up with a “Brucie bonus”—an appointment.

Although I remember years ago, old-fashioned receptionists were just as tough and strict.

As true today as it ever was.

Peter Fallon

Southampton