Communication Takes Longer
People may need extra time to:
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explain how they feel
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understand medical information
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ask questions
Anxiety and Stress
Doctor visits can be stressful, particularly for people with:
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autism
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anxiety disorders
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learning disabilities
Rushing appointments can increase distress.
Important Symptoms Can Be Missed
When appointments are rushed:
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symptoms may not be fully explained
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doctors may make quick assumptions
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serious conditions may be overlooked
This is one reason why issues like diagnostic overshadowing can occur.
A Better Approach
Many experts recommend longer or flexible appointments for patients with additional needs.
Possible solutions include:
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double appointment times
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accessible communication
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quiet waiting areas
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involving carers when appropriate
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clear written information after the visit
Some GP practices already offer longer appointments for patients on learning disability registers, which is a positive step.
Slide You Could Use in Training
Short GP Appointments
In many healthcare systems, doctors have limited time.
Typical GP consultation:
10 minutes
This can be difficult for people who need extra support.
People with learning disabilities may need:
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more time to explain symptoms
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clear communication
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reassurance and support
Good healthcare means giving people the time they need.
Reflection Question for Students or Professionals
Ask your learners:
“How can we provide good care if we are rushing patients?”
Small changes in practice can make a big difference to patient safety and dignity.
Your observation about waiting longer in the waiting room than in the consultation is actually very commonly reported in studies of GP services.
It would be a very powerful real-life quote to include in your training:
“Sometimes you spend more time in the waiting room than you do with the doctor.”
That kind of real experience helps professionals understand the human side of healthcare systems.
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